VGB Blog

Domenico Tramontin: the silent architect behind Venice’s iconic gondola

When we think of Venice, our minds often drift to the slow, graceful glide of gondolas beneath romantic bridges and along narrow canals. But few stop to wonder: who shaped the gondola as we know it today? The answer lies not in grand palaces or famous paintings, but in a quiet workshop where one man’s […]

The Greek Presence in Venice and the story of San Giorgio dei Greci

Tucked away in the Castello district of Venice lies one of the city’s most fascinating and lesser-known treasures: San Giorgio dei Greci, the historic Orthodox church that stands as a testament to centuries of Greek presence in Venice. From the late Middle Ages, Venice became a vital crossroads for trade and culture between East and […]

Casa dei Tre Oci: A Story Etched in Stone on Giudecca Island, Venice

On the island of Giudecca in Venice, facing the splendor of St. Mark’s Basin, stands one of the city’s most intriguing buildings: the Casa dei Tre Oci, or “House of the Three Eyes.” Its name, in the Venetian dialect, refers to the three large ogival windows that dominate the main façade—”oci” meaning “eyes.” By Till […]

Walking Through Stories: Literary Landmarks of Venice

Venice has always been more than a beautiful city of canals and palazzi: it is a place of mystery, romance and intrigue, and countless authors have set their stories among its winding streets and grand monuments. If you’d like to see Venice through the eyes of a writer—and then walk in their footsteps—here are four […]

The Rezzonico Family: From Merchants to Venetian Nobility

Venice, a city of grandeur and intrigue, has long been shaped by its powerful noble families. Among them, the Rezzonico family stands out as a remarkable example of social ascent, wealth, and influence. But how did they rise to prominence, and what legacy did they leave behind? Unlike many ancient Venetian families, the Rezzonico were […]

The Secrets of the Doge’s Palace: A Journey into Venice’s Hidden Rooms

The Doge’s Palace in Venice is more than just a stunning architectural masterpiece—it is a place filled with mysteries and fascinating stories. Beyond its grand halls, a lesser-known path awaits: the Secret Rooms, hidden chambers where the fate of the Republic was shaped behind closed doors. Walking through private passages and concealed rooms, visitors uncover […]

Paolo Sarpi: Venice’s Intellectual Rebel and Enduring Legacy

Venice is renowned for its dazzling art and architecture, yet beyond its well-trodden paths lies a rich intellectual heritage shaped by visionary figures like Paolo Sarpi (1552–1623). Often overlooked by mainstream tourist narratives, Sarpi’s life and work offer a fascinating window into the vibrant debates and revolutionary ideas that once animated the Venetian Republic.

Baldassare Longhena and the splendor of the Scuola Grande dei Carmini

Venice is a city of breathtaking architecture, shaped by the vision of great masters. Among them, Baldassare Longhena (1598–1682) stands out as one of the most influential architects of the Baroque era. His work redefined Venetian architecture, blending grandeur with harmony, light, and movement. Longhena is best known for designing the iconic Santa Maria della […]