Church of the Santissimo Redentore

Hey traveler and traveler, today we’re taking you to one of the most iconic, but often overlooked, places in Venice: the Church of the Santissimo Redentore in Venice, Italy.

A architectural and spiritual gem that holds history, art and a breathtaking view of the lagoon. It’s not just a church, but a symbol of rebirth and devotion, nestled in the tranquility of the Giudecca island.

Read more in this guide by Venice Insider Guide!

The Church of the Santissimo Redentore in Venice, also known as Chiesa del Santissimo Redentore, is one of the most important and evocative religious buildings in Venice. It stands majestic on the Fondamenta della Giudecca, right in front of the Giudecca Canal, with its classical facade reflecting in the water.

So what makes it so special?

First of all its panoramic view, with a stunning view of San Marco and Punta della Dogana. Then the signature of the Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio, who designed it as an ex voto for the end of the terrible plague of 1575-77.

Today, every year, Venice celebrates with a floating votive bridge during the Festa del Redentore, one of the most beloved events in the city.

Chiesa del Santissimo Redentore Venice: description

At first glance the Church of the Santissimo Redentore in Venice impresses with its proportions and Palladian sobriety. It’s a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture where every detail has a meaning.Inside and out it reflects two different souls: one more intimate and spiritual, the other celebratory and triumphant. This duality is what makes the visit so fascinating: it’s not just a church, it’s a journey into the Venetian soul.

The complex includes the main church and the adjacent convent, now home to the Cappuccini, the friars who still keep the spirit alive.

Church of the Santissimo Redentore Venice interior

As soon as you step into the Church of the Santissimo Redentore Venice, you feel enveloped in peace. The aisles are bright thanks to the clever use of natural light that filters in through the high windows.

The polychrome marble floor leads your eye to the main altar, simple but imposing. The decorations are not excessive but every artistic element has its reason.

Must see:

"The Baptism of Christ" by Paolo Veronese, on the left wall
"Christ carrying the Cross" attributed to Jacopo Tintoretto
The side chapels, each with its own devotion and style

Did you know? The interior was designed to host large crowds during the votive services: that’s why it has a Latin cross plan with a wide central nave.

Church of the Santissimo Redentore Venice exterior

The exterior of the Church of the Santissimo Redentore Venice Italy is its most scenic card.

The facade is a Roman temple, with Corinthian columns supporting a classical fronton. The white marble stands out against the blue of the lagoon, creating a chromatic contrast that attracts photographers and artists.Behind, the large central dome looms over the whole structure: it can be seen from afar, as if it were a spiritual lighthouse for the city. At night, lit up, the church is mystical and breathtaking.

The facade is also the star of the show during the Festa del Redentore, when it’s decorated with lights, flowers and candles.

History Church of the Santissimo Redentore

The history of the Church of the Santissimo Redentore in Venice is deeply connected to one of the most tragic events in Venetian history: the plague of 1575-1577 that killed over 50,000 people, a third of the population.

During the epidemic, the Venetian Senate made a vow to build a big church dedicated to the Christ Redentore, in case the plague would end. The vow was kept and the works started in 1577.

The Church of the Santissimo Redentore in Venice was inaugurated on July 20th of the same year and since then every year a votive procession takes place from San Marco to the church via a floating bridge.

The whole complex is therefore a monument to hope, resilience and faith of the Venetian people.

Who built the Redentore church in Venice

The name that stands out is Andrea Palladio, one of the greatest Italian Renaissance architects. His balanced, rational and classical style influenced architecture all over Europe and even in America (think Jefferson!).

Palladio never saw his work completed as he died in 1580. The works were finished by Antonio da Ponte, the same engineer who built the Rialto Bridge.The Church of the Santissimo Redentore Venice is considered one of his most pure and solemn works, a perfect combination of spirituality and architectural rationality.

How to get to the Redentore church in Venice: steps

Getting to the Church of the Santissimo Redentore in Venice is an experience in itself.

Being on Giudecca, it’s not walkable from San Marco or Rialto. Here’s how to do it:

Take vaporetto line 2 or 4.1/4.2 from Piazzale Roma, Ferrovia or San Zaccaria.
Get off at Redentore stop.
From there, just a few steps and you’ll be in front of the church.

For a more romantic (or Instagrammable) experience, you can also take a water taxi or a gondola. The ride crosses the Giudecca Canal and offers a breathtaking view.

Church of the Santissimo Redentore Venice hours:

If you’re planning your visit, here are the updated hours of the Church of the Santissimo Redentore in Venice:

Monday to Saturday
10.30am to 5.00pm

Tip by Venice Insider Guide: the best time to visit is around noon when the light comes in from the side windows creating nice plays of light.

Admission is free, but you can leave a donation or buy a cumulative ticket to visit other churches in the Chorus circuit.

Where is Church of the Santissimo Redentore:

Full address of Church of the Santissimo Redentore in Venice: Giudecca 195, campo Santissimo Redentore, 30133 Venice, ItalyThe area is quiet, far from the tourist chaos of the historic center. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk, maybe with a stop at one of the bacari of Giudecca.

You can combine the visit with a walk to the Zattere or a tour of the Mulino Stucky turned into a luxury hotel.

Church of the Santissimo Redentore Venice: conclusion

Dear travelers, if you’re looking for an authentic place, rich in history, art and meaning, the Church of the Santissimo Redentore Venice (Chiesa del Santissimo Redentore di Venezia) is a must-see.

It’s not just a beautiful architecture, but also a living testimony of the devotion and strength of ancient Venice.

Time seems to stand still. The quiet waters of the lagoon, the light filtering through the columns, the silence broken only by the footsteps of the pilgrims, all contribute to create a mystical and intimate atmosphere, far from the tourist noise.

Come and see it, on foot, by vaporetto or with your heart. Venice will surprise you, always.

Next stop,
Venice Insider Guide.