San Sebastiano, Renaissance church in Dorsoduro, Venice, Italy
San Sebastiano is a Renaissance church in Venice's Dorsoduro district with a Latin cross layout, single nave, and a dome above the choir area. The interior is defined by large-scale paintings that cover the walls and ceiling throughout.
Construction began in 1506 under architect Antonio Abbondi and extended over roughly a century until 1600. During this period, the church developed into a major example of Venetian Renaissance building.
Paolo Veronese spent decades painting large scenes across the walls and ceiling, covering biblical stories and the life of Saint Sebastian throughout this space. His artwork shapes how the interior feels, with new details revealing themselves as you move around the room.
The church is accessible through the Chorus Association, which manages several Venetian churches and offers regular visiting hours. The entrance is located at Campo San Sebastiano and is straightforward to reach.
Paolo Veronese chose this church as his final resting place, with his memorial relief positioned on the wall beside the organ. The artist thus remains permanently among his own masterworks.
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