Likiep Catholic Church | Likiep Atoll

Information

Landmark: Likiep Catholic Church
City: Likiep Atoll
Country: Marshall Islands
Continent: Australia

Likiep Catholic Church, Likiep Atoll, Marshall Islands, Australia

Palazzo Balbi is a historic palace located on the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy.

It is currently the seat of the Veneto Regional Government.

Visual Characteristics

The palazzo features a rectangular plan with three floors above a basement. The facade is constructed from Istrian stone and brick, with a rusticated ground floor. The upper floors are characterized by a series of arched windows with decorative keystones. The roof is pitched and covered with terracotta tiles. The architectural style is Baroque, with later Neoclassical modifications.

Location & Access Logistics

Palazzo Balbi is situated on the north bank of the Grand Canal, between the Rialto Bridge and the Accademia Bridge. It is accessible via the Grand Canal by Vaporetto (public water bus) lines 1 and 2, disembarking at the San Tomà stop. The nearest land access is via Calle del Traghetto Vecchio. Parking is not available at the palazzo; visitors typically use public parking garages such as Garage San Marco or Autorimessa Comunale, located approximately 1.5km away, and then travel by Vaporetto.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Palazzo Balbi began in 1582, commissioned by the wealthy Balbi family. The original design is attributed to Alessandro Vittoria, with later modifications and completion by Jacopo Sansovino and Giovanni Antonio Rusconi. Its original purpose was as a grand family residence, showcasing the wealth and status of the Balbi dynasty.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the exterior architecture from the Grand Canal. Interior access is generally restricted to official government functions and pre-arranged group tours, which must be booked well in advance through the Veneto Regional Government offices. Specific guided tours focus on the historical significance and architectural evolution of the building.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the administrative offices for authorized personnel. Public access to amenities is limited. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in the vicinity. No food vendors are located directly at the palazzo; dining options are available in the surrounding San Polo district.

Best Time to Visit

For viewing the exterior, any time of day provides a clear perspective. For photography, late afternoon light offers favorable illumination on the facade. The best months for visiting Venice are generally April to May and September to October, avoiding peak summer heat and crowds.

Facts & Legends

The Balbi family, despite their immense wealth, faced significant financial difficulties in the 17th century, leading to the eventual sale of the palazzo. A specific legend claims that a hidden passage once connected the palazzo to the nearby Rialto Market, facilitating discreet movement of goods and people.