San Lorenzo, Venice, Former Benedictine church in Castello, Italy
San Lorenzo is a former Benedictine church in Venice's Castello district, featuring baroque architecture from the early 1600s. The interior is divided by an ornate iron screen that once separated areas for lay worshippers and religious members.
The church was originally founded in 812 and underwent complete reconstruction between 1592 and 1602 under architect Simone Sorella. This rebuild transformed it into the baroque structure visible today.
The church contains relics of Saint Paul I of Constantinople, brought to Venice in 1226, marking its significance as a religious destination.
The building now operates as Ocean Space, a center for marine research and environmental initiatives. Access may vary depending on current programming and scheduled events.
Marco Polo was buried here in 1324, yet his exact tomb remains a mystery after the chapel containing him was demolished in 1580. This unsolved story connects the place to one of Venice's most famous figures.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
