"Campo
Santa Margherita
Depart
on foot from the pier and walk along the Fondamenta di San Basilio to
reach Campo Santa Margherita, lively animated during weekdays by
fresh fruit stands and a small fish market in the morning. Because
many visitors to Venice catch only a brief glimpse of what the city
has to offer, this excursion features a number of additional sights
that reveal what lies behind its glittering façade. In a short
distance you will reach Campo San Rocco.
Campo
San Rocco
Your
walking tour continues on for an exterior visit to Campo San Rocco to
view the church and Scuola Grande di San Rocco. Founded in 1478 under
the protection of St. Roch, the Patron Saint of plague victims, this
was one of the great charitable institutions of the Venetian
Renaissance. The interior houses some of the most important Italian
paintings created by Tintoretto.
Church
of Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei Frari
Just
a few steps away, an inside visit is made to the Franciscan friars'
Church of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari. This Gothic church is a
stunning vestige of ancient Venetian glory, and contains masterpieces
by Bellini and Titian. On Sundays, only an exterior viewing is
possible.
Campo
San Polo
Leaving
the church, proceed to Campo San Polo, one of the largest squares in
Venice and home to theatrical performances. Pass Campo San Tomá and
the Goldoni House, where the famous 18th-century Venetian playwright
Carlo Goldoni was born. Today, it is a theatre and museum.
Rialto
Bridge
Next,
continue through narrow pedestrian walkways to the Rialto Bridge.
Originally built from wood in 1172 A.D., this is the largest and most
famous of the four bridges that span the Grand Canal. As you cross,
be sure to have your camera ready to take memorable photos from both
the waterfront and the top of the bridge.
At
a local café, enjoy refreshing juice or coffee and a Venetian
biscuit while you soak up the delightful atmosphere of Campo San
Giovanni & Paolo, followed by some free time to explore the area
independently. Your guided tour ends here.
Greek
Orthodox District
Along
with your escort, meander through the winding streets and small
courtyards of the old Greek Orthodox District or Riva degli Schiavoni.
Following
your tour, your tour escort directs you to the motor launch for the
ride back to the ship."
A picture of Campo Santa Margherita appears below.
This is the last of our planned tours. And the planning continues.....
