Palazzo Soranzo, Gothic palace in San Polo, Venice, Italy
Palazzo Soranzo comprises two connected Gothic buildings facing Campo San Polo, with the older section built in the mid-14th century. The structure features characteristic Gothic elements and has been divided into residential apartments and office spaces while preserving its original architectural details.
The palace belonged to the Soranzo family, one of Venice's most important families, with a member named Giovanni serving as Doge from 1312 to 1328. The building was also renowned for frescoes painted by Giorgione, underscoring its significance as an artistic landmark in Venetian history.
The palace reflects how Venice shifted from relying on waterways to developing land-based spaces, as it originally opened toward the Rio Sant'Antonio canal. Walking past it today, you can sense how the building adapted to this change in how the city was used.
The building is now divided into residential and office spaces located on the lively Campo San Polo, one of Venice's largest squares and easy to reach on foot. The Gothic elements are visible from outside, making it a convenient stop during a walk through the neighborhood.
Before Campo San Polo was paved in 1493, small bridges connected the palace to the square since the area was still marshy and prone to flooding. This detail shows how Venice gradually developed its infrastructure to adapt to a growing city.
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