Scuola Vecchia della Misericordia, Religious confraternity building in Cannaregio, Venice, Italy
The Scuola Vecchia della Misericordia is a building at the intersection of Rio della Sensa with Rio di Noale and Rio di San Falice in northern Venice. The structure once served as a confraternity headquarters and contained a garden with multiple functional areas.
The building was founded in 1310 as a charity institution and expanded over the following two centuries with the addition of a cemetery and garden areas. Significant architectural changes occurred in the 15th century, reflecting the artistic development of the time.
The facade displays 15th-century decorative elements including two small angels holding a scroll and foliage capitals that remain visible today. These details reflect the craftsmanship of the period and give the building its solemn character.
The building now functions as a research and conservation center and is not open to regular visitors. Occasional guided tours and events provide opportunities to access it, so check ahead before planning a visit.
In the 1920s, art collector Italico Brass converted the building into his personal studio and redesigned the garden with geometrically arranged flowerbeds bordered by hedges. This artistic transformation merged the historical spaces with a modern creative use.
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