Santa Maria di Nazareth, better known as the Scalzi, is a Baroque church in Cannaregio, beside Venezia Santa Lucia railway station. Its façade, with columns and statues, is a striking introduction to an interior filled with marble, sculptures, paintings, chapels and frescoes, including work by Tiepolo. The church also holds the tombs of two Venetian doges, Carlo Ruzzini and Lodovico Manin. Take time to look closely at the decoration, and consider adding the church to a walk around the station area or the Grand Canal.
A church built for the Discalced Carmelites
The church takes its familiar name, the Scalzi, from the Discalced Carmelite friars who settled in Venice in 1633. They commissioned Baldassare Longhena to design a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Work began in 1656, and the building was completed in 1689, after Longhena’s death, by Giuseppe Pozzo.
The Baroque façade came later, built between 1672 and 1680 to a design by Giuseppe Sardi. Columns and statues give it a formal, sculptural appearance. Pause outside to take in the arrangement before entering; the exterior and the interior have distinct details to explore.
Details inside the church
Inside, marble work, sculptures, paintings and frescoes fill the chapels and other spaces. Tiepolo is among the artists whose work is associated with the church. The lighting can feel subdued, with daylight falling in from outside, so allow your eyes time to adjust and look around rather than heading straight through.
The church is also the burial place of two Venetian doges: Carlo Ruzzini, who died in 1735, and Lodovico Manin, who died in 1802. Their tombs add a link to Venice’s civic history within a place built for worship. Keep your visit quiet and respectful, especially if people are praying.
A stop beside Venezia Santa Lucia
Santa Maria di Nazareth stands beside Venezia Santa Lucia railway station in Cannaregio, making it an easy stop when arriving in Venice or waiting for a train. Its location also places it near the Grand Canal, where the church is one of the notable religious buildings along the water.
Nearby, Sotoportego della Madonna is a covered passage running beneath a building. Sotoporteghi are a characteristic part of Venice’s street layout, and this one has a story attached to it. You can add it to a short walk around the church and station area. The church’s listed visiting hours are in the afternoon; on Sundays, Mass is held at 6 pm.
FAQ
Where is Santa Maria di Nazareth Church?
It is in Cannaregio, beside Venezia Santa Lucia railway station and near the Grand Canal.
What is the Scalzi church known for?
The church is known for its Baroque façade and richly decorated interior, with sculptures, paintings, frescoes and Tiepolo’s work.
Which doges are buried in the church?
The church holds the tombs of Carlo Ruzzini, who died in 1735, and Lodovico Manin, who died in 1802.
When is Sunday Mass?
Mass is held at 6 pm on Sundays.
