Palace Smith Mangilli Valmarana, Neoclassical palace in Cannaregio, Venice, Italy.
Palace Smith Mangilli Valmarana is a three-story building along the Grand Canal featuring neoclassical design. Its facade displays rectangular windows framed by Corinthian pilasters and half-columns, with a central water entrance that provides direct access from the canal.
British Consul Joseph Smith purchased the building in 1740 and hired architect Antonio Visentini to redesign its facade, transforming it from a Gothic-Byzantine structure between 1743 and 1751. This renovation created the neoclassical appearance visitors see today.
The palace served as a gathering place for artists and writers during the 18th century, drawing figures like Canaletto and Carlo Goldoni who shaped Venice's intellectual life. The rooms hosted conversations that influenced the city's cultural development.
The palace is easily reached by vaporetto line 1 from Rialto Bridge or Ca' d'Oro dock. Check opening hours in advance and allow time to explore the interior rooms and decorative details at a comfortable pace.
The interior rooms feature neoclassical decorations designed by Giannantonio Selva, with themes celebrating virtue and romantic love. These spaces contain artworks selected to reflect the refined taste of the palace's wealthy residents.
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