Venice is a city full of beautiful and historic palaces, and one of the most famous is Cà Rezzonico.
Located on the Grand Canal, this impressive palace offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Venetian nobility during the 18th century.
In this article, we will explore why you should definitely visit the beautiful Cà Rezzonico during your next trip to Venice.
Why should you visit Cà Rezzonico in Venice?
Cà Rezzonico is a remarkable example of Venetian Baroque and Rococo architecture, with its ornate façade and grand staircase leading up to the entrance.
But the real reason to visit is the incredible art and furnishings inside. The palace is home to a museum of 18th century Venetian art and decor, including impressive frescoes, furniture, and chandeliers.
Once you get inside the palace, you won't believe your eyes for the richness, the splendor and the attention to details you will see inside.
Let's begin our visit of the Cà Rezzonico in Venice.
The history of Cà Rezzonico in Venice
Cà Rezzonico was originally built for the noble Bon family in the mid-17th century, but it was later acquired by the wealthy Rezzonico family in 1751.
The Rezzonicos were one of the wealthiest and most influential families in Venice during the 18th century, and they spared no expense in renovating and decorating the palazzo to reflect their wealth and status.
The renovation of the palace was overseen by architect Giorgio Massari, who was responsible for the design of the grand staircase and many of the interior rooms. Massari's Baroque style is evident throughout the palazzo, with its ornate decorations and grandeur.
The Rezzonicos enjoyed their palazzo for only a short time, as their fortunes began to decline towards the end of the 18th century. The family was eventually forced to sell the palazzo in the early 19th century, and it passed through several different owners before being purchased by the City of Venice in the early 20th century.
In the 1930s, the palazzo was converted into a museum of 18th century Venetian art and furnishings, which it remains to this day. The restoration and renovation of the palazzo took several years, but it was finally opened to the public in 1936.
Today, Cà Rezzonico is a popular tourist attraction in Venice, drawing visitors from around the world to admire its impressive architecture and art.
What to see outside
Even if the part of the exteriors of the palace are left incomplete, the façade that overlooks the Grand Canal is just impressive, a true masterpiece of the Baroque style.
The exterior of Cà Rezzonico is an impressive sight to behold.
The façade features three stories of ornate decorations, including intricate stone carvings and decorative balconies.
The grand staircase, which leads up to the entrance, is also an impressive sight, with its sweeping curve and intricate ironwork.
What to see inside the palace
Inside Cà Rezzonico, visitors can explore a range of rooms that have been meticulously restored to their eighteenth century grandeur.
The palazzo is home to a museum of Venetian art and furnishings, with each room showcasing a different aspect of Venetian life during the period.
Highlights include the ballroom, which features a stunning ceiling fresco by Giambattista Tiepolo, and the reconstruction of a bedroom, which boasts a beautifully painted ceiling and elegant furnishings.
How to get there
Cà Rezzonico is located on the Grand Canal, in the Dorsoduro neighborhood of Venice.
Visitors can take a vaporetto (water bus) to the Ca' Rezzonico stop, which is just a few steps from the palace.
Opening hours and tickets
The entrance fee for Cà Rezzonico is €10 for adults with important reductions for young, elderly people and students.
Kindly note that at the moment you cannot visit Cà Rezzonico, as the palace is going under some important works of renovation. We'll keep you updated on when the museum will be open again.
Would you include the visit of Ca Rezzonico during your next trip to Venice?
Visiting Cà Rezzonico is a must for anyone interested in the history and art of Venice.
Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking to explore the grandeur of Venice's past, Cà Rezzonico is definitely a must-see attraction!
The cover photo is by Marc Ryckaert, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons