The Church of Saints Gervasius and Protasius, also known as San Trovaso, is an important place of worship in the heart of Venice. This architectural jewel was built in honour of the martyred saints Gervasius and Protasius, whose names are often combined to form "Trovaso" in Venetian. This is where the name San Trovaso comes from. The church contains important examples of 16th century Venetian painting, such as the Madonna painting by Giovanni Bellini and works by Tintoretto.
Probably built in the first half of the 9th century, the church was rebuilt several times over the centuries and finally remodelled between the 16th and 17th centuries in keeping with the spirit of the time. The main façade, which faces south-west and overlooks a raised field with a fountain, has a large semi-circular window framed by curved double volute elements, while a triangular tympanum frames the entire façade. Along the San Trovaso canal there is a second façade similar to the first. (To prevent the members of two hostile families from meeting when going to church!) Next to it is the new bell tower with large windows crowned by an octagonal drum.
The interior of the church has a Latin cross floor plan with a single nave and numerous side chapels. One of the most important works of art is the 18th century marble sculpture ‘St John the Baptist’ by an unknown artist in the baptismal font. In the Molin Chapel there is an oil painting by Domenico Tintoretto entitled ‘Crucifixion with the Virgin Mary’ from 1589. In the presbytery there are two majestic gilded wooden chandeliers from the 1700s. You can also admire the ‘Adoration of the Magi’, a painting in oil on canvas by Domenico Tintoretto from the late 16th and early 17th century, which is characterised by an abundance of figures and details. The church also houses paintings such as the ‘Martyrdom of Saints Gervasius and Protasius’ by V. Ponga from 1910 and Domenico Tintoretto’s painting ‘St Joachim Expelled from the Temple’ from the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Other important works can be found in the chapels, including sculptures, paintings and bas-reliefs, which enrich the spiritual and artistic atmosphere of the church. The organ built by Gaetano Callido in 1765 for the Confraternity of the Blessed Sacrament and the marble relief ‘Mary Elizabeth and the Virgin’ from 1626-1628 are further testimonies to the art and history of this marvellous Venetian church.
Monday – Saturday | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
(ticket offices, bookshop, last admission ten minutes before closing time)
You can obtain the Chorus Pass at the ticket office of the Chiesa di Santo Stefano, the Chiesa di San Giacomo dall’Orio or the Chiesa di San Sebastiano on presentation of the Venice City Pass. The Chorus Pass is valid for the churches listed on the ticket. Keep the Chorus Pass to visit the other churches.
The nearest boat landing stage is "Zattere". Lines 2, 5.1, 5.2, 6, 10, CA, N stop here.
Fondamenta Bonlini, Dorsoduro, 380, 30123 Venezia
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The Chorus Pass for the churches of Venice is included in your >> Venice City Pass.
Free admission to Venice's museums, attractions, and tours. Free public transport can be added. Discounts included.
incl. VAT and service fees, free shipping via e-mail
