As you cross the rushing water of the Grand Canal the mighty San Giorgio Maggiore will begin to rise before you. On this Venetian island stands a huge church, with gardens behind it and a small marina to its side. All visitors to Venice can look across the water and see the church’s façade in the distance, but take the time to visit for a truly unique experience.
The San Giorgio Monastery and the Basilica of San Giorgio Maggiore were established over a thousand years ago and remain active today. Explore the serene interior of the church, which was designed in the 16th century by the great Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio. The rooms of the basilica and monastery are full of history and fine artworks, such as Adoration of the Shepherds by Jacopo Bassano and Tintoretto’s final painting, Deposition. Visit the monastery library to browse a historic collection of books.
Look for the enormous Campanile (bell tower) that reaches up towards the sky behind the huge dome of the basilica. The bell tower matches the one in the St. Mark’s Square in the city center and is just as spectacular but with fewer queues. Climb the tower to find a breathtaking view. Enjoy the 360-degree views of Venice, the Adriatic Sea and, when clouds are few, even a view of the Alps. The tower features an elevator for those unable to make the strenuous climb to its top.
Fanning out from the central basilica of San Giorgio Maggiore are the buildings of the monastery. Stay a night in one of the monastery’s guest rooms for a truly Venetian experience. Enjoy some peace and quiet after the last day visitors leave the monastery as you get in touch with the island’s unique traditions. The Benedictine monks here have been welcoming visitors since the 10th century.
Attend a performance at the amphitheater known as Teatro Verde (Green Theater) for a complete experience of San Giorgio Maggiore.
Get to the island by crossing the water on a small ferry called a “vaporetto,” or a water taxi.
