Information
Landmark: Enyu IslandCity: Bikini Atoll
Country: Marshall Islands
Continent: Australia
Enyu Island, Bikini Atoll, Marshall Islands, Australia
The Church of San Giovanni e Paolo, also known as San Zanipolo, is a large Roman Catholic church located in the San Polo district of Venice, Italy.
Visual Characteristics
This Gothic-style basilica is constructed primarily from brick. Its facade is unadorned, featuring a large rose window and three portals. The interior is characterized by its vast, open nave, supported by numerous columns. The dimensions are approximately 101 meters in length and 37 meters in width, with a height of 48 meters to the apex of the vault.
Location & Access Logistics
The church is situated in the Campo dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo, approximately 1.2 kilometers north of St. Mark's Square. Access is via foot or by Vaporetto (water bus). The nearest Vaporetto stops are "Ospedale" (Line 1, 4.1, 5.1) and "Fondamente Nove" (Line 4.1, 5.1, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20). There is no dedicated parking; visitors must use public parking facilities at Piazzale Roma or Tronchetto, followed by Vaporetto or a significant walk.
Historical & Ecological Origin
Construction of the church began in 1425 and was completed in 1430, though the facade was finished later. It was built on the site of an earlier church and was intended to be the principal Dominican church in Venice. The architect is not definitively known, but it is attributed to the Venetian school of Gothic architecture.
Key Highlights & Activities
Visitors can explore the nave and chapels, observe the tombs of numerous Venetian Doges and important figures, and examine the artwork within. Specific tombs include those of Doge Enrico Dandolo and Doge Leonardo Loredan. The sacristy contains significant paintings by artists such as Titian and Veronese. Guided tours focusing on the history and art are available.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available within the church complex. Limited seating is provided in the nave. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located directly within the church; however, cafes and restaurants are present in the surrounding Campo.
Best Time to Visit
The church is open daily from morning to late afternoon. For optimal interior lighting for photography, visit during midday hours when sunlight penetrates the windows. The months of April through October offer generally pleasant weather for walking to the site.
Facts & Legends
The church is the burial place of 25 Doges of Venice. A notable legend concerns the bell tower, which, despite its height, has never been struck by lightning, a phenomenon attributed to divine protection.
Nearby Landmarks
- Scuola Grande di San Marco (0.1km West)
- Ospedale Civile (0.2km North)
- Rialto Bridge (1.0km Southwest)
- Basilica di San Marco (1.2km South)
- Doge's Palace (1.3km Southwest)