Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, Renaissance minor basilica on San Giorgio Island, Italy.
The Church of San Giorgio Maggiore is a Renaissance basilica on an island facing Venice, featuring a distinctive white marble facade with two rows of monumental columns and statues at the entrance. The interior extends back with elegant vaulting and houses several artworks throughout the space.
Construction began in 1566 following architect Andrea Palladio's design and replaced an earlier church that stood since 790, destroyed by an earthquake in 1223. This new structure embodied Renaissance architectural ideals and shaped the appearance of the lagoon area.
The church is named after Saint George, the protector against evil, whose statue stands at the entrance alongside Saint Stephen. Visitors notice these figures when entering and understand the religious significance of the place.
The basilica is easiest to reach by ferry from the nearby waterfront square and entry is free. Those wishing to climb the bell tower should know that a separate fee applies and the climb involves steep stairs.
Inside are artworks by painter Tintoretto, including a large painting of the Last Supper depicted from an unusual angled perspective. This tilted viewpoint gives the scene a dynamic quality that differs from the traditional composition of other church paintings.
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