Sant'Aponal, Gothic Catholic church in San Polo district, Venice, Italy
Sant'Aponal is a Gothic church located near Rialto Bridge in the San Polo district. It features a brick facade with Gothic decorations, including a prominent rose window above the main entrance portal.
The church was founded in the 11th century by refugees from Ravenna and underwent major reconstruction in 1407. It later served multiple functions including a political prison before eventually taking on different roles in Venice's history.
The entrance features stone reliefs showing the Crucifixion with saints beneath a Gothic arch. Inside, visitors can see works by Palma il Giovane and other artistic pieces that reflect the place's role in Venetian art and devotion.
The building currently functions as an archive facility accessible through narrow streets connecting Campo San Giacomo di Rialto to Rialto Bridge. Visitors should expect tight passageways and can easily combine this stop with exploring nearby canals and squares.
The Romanesque bell tower base contained one of Venice's earliest known relief representations of the Lion of Saint Mark. This artwork demonstrates the early roots of Venetian religious symbols and their artistic expression.
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