Palazzo Corner Contarini dei Cavalli

Palazzo Corner Contarini dei Cavalli is a palace on Venice's Grand Canal featuring International Gothic architecture with later modifications. The main facade displays a hexafora with trefoil arches on the principal floor, along with pointed lancet windows on the sides that echo the style of the Doge's Palace.

A previous building on this site was marked with shame in 1310 after its owners took part in Bajamonte Tiepolo's failed rebellion against Venice. The current palace was later constructed over these ruins, reflecting how the city rebuilt and transformed places tied to past conflicts.

The palace shows how Venetian Gothic blended with later building styles over time, with its facade displaying elements from different periods that reveal the city's architectural evolution.

The building is positioned between the Rio di San Luca and Palazzo Grimani di San Luca and currently functions as offices for the Ministry of Justice. Access is limited since it serves as an administrative building, but the facade remains visible from the Grand Canal for viewing its Gothic details.

The palace earned its additional name from two large fifteenth-century heraldic shields on the facade depicting sea horses. These symbols held special meaning for local families and their maritime power, making the building easily recognizable to those who knew Venetian heraldry.

Location: Venice

Architectural style: International Gothic

GPS coordinates: 45.43610,12.33257

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:26