The Scala Contarini del Bovolo, a spectacular spiral staircase, is an extension to the Gothic Palazzo Contarini. The building was commissioned by Pietro Contarini, the former lord of the palace, in the 15th century and is today one of the most famous buildings of the Renaissance. At the end of the staircase is a domed room that offers a marvellous view over Venice. Further highlights can be found on the 2nd floor of Palazzo Contarini, in the Sala del Tintoretto. There is an art exhibition that offers a unique insight into the life of the Venetian patricians.
Hidden in a labyrinth of streets and canals stands an architectural jewel characterised by a style that is somewhere between Renaissance, Gothic and Venetian-Byzantine: the Scala Contarini del Bovolo.
The most impressive and valuable spiral staircase in Venice was commissioned by Pietro Contarini, probably towards the end of the 15th century, to decorate the façade of the neighbouring Palazzo di San Paternian.
During its long existence, which spans five centuries of Venetian history, the palace now known as Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo has undergone numerous changes.
In the late fifteenth century, the building was adapted to modern Renaissance taste with the construction of the loggia and the graceful spiral staircase known as the "bovolo" (Venetian word for "snail").
Traces of the older Gothic architecture can still be seen both outside and inside: On the side facing St Mark’s Square, parts of a lavish floral decoration can be seen, while the main façade overlooking the Rio di San Luca still retains its original late Gothic appearance.
The spiral staircase is built into a twenty-eight metre high cylindrical tower. It owes its striking appearance to the alternation of red cotto bricks and white Istrian stone, and eighty steps lead up to the various loggias and the viewpoint.
This concept is unusually elaborate for an external staircase and was a first of its kind. The staircase ends in a domed room that offers an outstanding view over the entire city.
The loggia on the second floor of the Scala del Bovolo leads to the representative hall of the Palazzo Contarini (Sala del Tintoretto), where paintings, sculptures and objects are exhibited that provide a fascinating insight into the tastes of the Venetian patricians of the time.
From 26 February 2024 until 20 October 2024:
daily 10:00 - 18:00
Last admission 30 minutes before closing.
Closed: 1 January, 7 January, 15 August, 1 November, 25 and 26 December
The ticket for the Scala Contarini del Bovolo and the Sala del Tintoretto is included in your Venice City Pass.
The Palazzo Contarini is located in the San Marco district, near Campo Manin. Just a few steps away from the Rialto Bridge you will find this spiral staircase on one of the main streets leading to St Mark’s Square.
Calle Contarini del Bovolo, San Marco 4303, 30124 Venice, Italy
Click here
to see on google maps
Your ticket for the Scala Contarini del Bovolo and the Sala del Tintoretto 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
