See The Golden House of Venice – Ca’ d’Oro
As one of the most amazing works of architecture, Ca’ d’Oro has quite a claim to being world renowned and they definitely deserve the honor.
Influences from the Middle East and throughout the continent were enjoyed by Venice which has helped them to remain a big part of trade for centuries. This cosmopolitan city’s architecture is affected by the mixture of trade and influence from places beyond.
Ca’ d’Oro sits beside the Grand Canal which is known as the main waterway for the city. Constructed during the 15th century, the home was inhabited by the Contarini family after 1430 who were a quasi-noble and well known family. Between 1043 and 1676, the Contarini family gave eight of their own as doges to Venice.
Decorated in a pink and white facade along with remnants of past gold leafing (which gave the building its name), is a gothic style Venetian classic. With arches of the Byzantine style that are pointed, and carved posts that elaborately bear capitals, the building has only a small resemblance to the Greek. A popular architect of the time period named Giovanni Bon created the floral-like designs found throughout.
In a colonnaded loggia accessible from the canal level, you will find the entrance on the ground floor. An awe inspiring enclosed balcony located upstairs can be found right outside the art gallery. Although this view from outside is impressive, once inside it’s even more so.
In a bustling city, peace can be found in the inner courtyard as long as the place isn’t too crowded with visionary visitors. While resting, an interesting sight not to miss is the wellhead, otherwise known as the vera di pozzo.
In one room 16th century Flemish tapestries can be found. In another room a collection of 12th through 16th century bronzes are on display, and nearly every time period tells a story through the furniture found on the premises.
Paintings that are on par with those found in the near by Gallerie dell’ Accademia are displayed here, those such as Mantegna’s “San Sebastiano” and Titan’s “Venus at the Mirror”. Thanks to the works of Van Dyke and Jan Steen, the Dutch even managed to find their artwork in Venice.
The Grand Canal in all its glory can be seen from the balcony outside, where breathtaking views abound. The Quatrefoil windows display intricate carvings worth taking a look at, so get close and personal when taking in all the sights on the balcony. Located on the second floor, the polychrome marble incrustations on the balcony should not be overlooked.
Outstanding ceramics found in a small room off of the loggia are well worth seeing, as kitchenware – including cups and plates – would impress even the wealthy in Venice during the 15th century.
The Golden House is a treasure that holds a good reason to visit Ca’ d’Oro, shorn of its gold exterior.
