Discover Guidecca.
Discover Guidecca. With its rich history and transformation, this peaceful island is a fascinating part of Venice and has much to offer. Just a short waterbus ride from Dorsoduro, the island is certainly worth the time to truly appreciate its distinctive character and breathtaking views.
Through the ages, the island has seen several significant transformations. A stroll through Giudecca unveils these historical layers: from traditional architecture to the industrial boom of the 19th century, and the repurposing of these old industrial zones into modern buildings and housing complexes.
Here, one can still immerse in the genuine Venetian way of life. The long northern promenade provides a spectacular view of the city across the Giudecca Canal. The southern shore offers expansive views of the southern lagoon, its myriad tiny islands, and the slender lidi, complete with its protective barrier system.
As a part of the Dorsoduro district, it is home to about 5,000 residents, a number augmented by the presence of several large international hotels and residential developments.
The history of this island mirrors the grand narrative of Venice itself; a city renowned for its beauty, evolution, and enduring spirit.
Geography and Origins of Name
Developmental Stages
Getting there by Public Vaporetto Services
List of Main Attractions
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Above. View from Bell-tower of the church of San Giorgio Maggiore. Guidecca Island, left and the Dorsoduro peninsula, right.
Discover Guidecca – Geography and Origins of Name
Giudecca is one of Venice’s largest islands and a part of the Dorsoduro district, lying immediately south of the central islands and separated from them by the Giudecca Canal. The island of San Giorgio Maggiore is located off its eastern tip.
Originally a cluster of eight islands, Giudecca was known in antiquity as “Spinalunga” (meaning “Long Thorn”). The name Giudecca might be a corruption of the Latin “Judaica” (Judaean), as several towns in Southern Italy and Sicily have Jewish quarters named Giudecca or Judeca.
However, the original Venetian Ghetto was in Cannaregio, in the city’s north, and there is no evidence, apart from the name, that Jews ever lived in Giudecca. Moreover, the term “Giudecca” was not typically used to describe the Jewish quarters in towns of northern Italy.
A second theory suggests that the name Giudecca comes from “zudegà,” meaning “judged” in Venetian, referring to the Republic’s allocation of some of the island’s land to patrician families in the 9th century.
Another suggestion is that the name might be a corruption of a word for tanneries in the Venetian dialect.
Developmental Stages:
Early Beginnings: Giudecca likely began as a fishing village around 500 AD.
Aristocratic Retreat: Since the initial land reclamation in the 12th century, Giudecca has served as a sanctuary for Venice’s affluent families. It became known for its fertile orchards, gardens, and quiet convents, offering an escape from the city center’s commotion.
Industrial Shifts: The advent of the late 19th and 20th centuries ushered in an era of industrialization on Giudecca, with the establishment of shipyards, factories, and even a film studio. This industrial boom significantly altered the island’s landscape and economic fabric.
Port Activities: Eventually, port operations in the basin and on Giudecca were transferred to mainland Marghera, starting in 1920. The Port Marritima, located at the western tip of Venice, was developed and maintained as a terminal for cruise ships and ferries, serving the Adriatic and Eastern Mediterranean. Additionally, a shipping pier is situated immediately west of the San Basilio vaporetto stop on the Dorsoduro side of the Giudecca Canal.
World War II Impact: The island endured considerable damage during World War II, which led to the downfall of numerous industries and a substantial loss of industrial jobs.
Modern Revival: Following the war, Giudecca went through a period of decline, but recent years have witnessed a significant revival. Former industrial zones have been transformed, and the island now boasts several “modern Venetian” residential districts, complete with excellent community and sports facilities.
(Note: Porto Marghera, also known as Marghera Port, was established as an industrial area and cutting-edge port in 1917. The Italian government initiated its development during World War I to accommodate large modern vessels that the existing port at Bacino San Marco could not. Development began in 1920, and over the following decade, shipping channels were dredged, and land was reclaimed. By 1923, the first chemical plant commenced operations in the area.)
Getting there by Public Vaporetto Services – Discover Guidecca
Looking at the Guidecca map above, you can see that on foot, the promenade along the northern part of Giudecca island; allows easy exploration of the full length of the island. Moving inland, each of the component islands are linked by bridges and can be explored along canal side or residential pathways.
The are four vaporetto stations on the northern coast of Guidecca Island, from east to west they are: Zitelle A and B, Redentore, Guidecca Palanca A and B and Sacca Fisola A and B. They ply diagonally across the Guidecca Canal, between the Dorsoduro stations of Spiriti Santo (eastern end), Zatteri Gesuati and B, San Basiolio (western end, nearer to the Cruise ship terminals).
Please note that maps show another a vaporetto stop right infront of at Hilton Molino Stucky. This serves the Alilaguna Linea Blu airport boats, which connect Venice Marco Polo Airport to the Stazione Marittima Cruise Terminals. Additionally, the Hilton Molino Stucky Venice hotel provides shuttle boats for its guests (a small residents charge, made by the hotel).
The Giudecca Canal in Venice is served by several vaporetto (water-bus) lines:
Line 4 and Line 5: These paired lines encircle Venice and connect it to the adjacent islands of Murano, Giudecca, and Lido. Line 4 or 5.1 travels clockwise (CW), while Line 4 or 5.2 travels counter-clockwise (CCW) around the city and the Giudecca Canal. Line 6 is an express line that runs from Piazzale Roma via the Zattere, traveling directly to Lido. It provides a convenient connection between the city center and Lido Island, passing through the Giudecca Canal.
Take the Line 2 vaporetto from San Zaccaria (near St. Mark’s Square waterfront) to San Giorgio Maggiore Island. San Giorgio Maggiore is home to important cultural sites such as the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, the Cini Foundation, and the Green Theatre. After exploring San Giorgio, hop back on Line 2 and get off at the Zitelle, Redentore, Palanca or Molino Stucky stops. From Giudecca, this vaporetto line proceeds to Tronchetto and then Piazzale Roma the major transportation hub in Venice, where you can connect to buses and taxis. Santa Lucia Rail terminal is closeby.
Another option for a great walk incorporating many classic views, is to start at the Academy bridge with its fabulous view east towards the Salute basilica. Walk to the left of the Academy, down the wide Rio Tera Foscarini, to the Fondamenta della Zatteri ai Gesuiti. The wonderful Gesuati church is directly on the right, as well as the Zatteri waterbus stops. Enjoy the panoramic views across the Guidecca Canal – there are several great cafes to relax in. Take the vaporetto acroass the wide canal to the Redentore on Guidecca. Go east, and follow my list of attractions below from no 5 to 1. Pick up the vaporetto at Zitelle and get back to base.
Remember that vaporetto tickets can be expensive for non-residents of Venice, so if you plan to use water-buses frequently, consider purchasing a transport pass to save money.
My comprehensive post, will help you with getting to grips with the water-transport system around Venice. “Venice Vaporetto Guide”
List of main attractions – Discover Guidecca
Guidecca Island. Courtesy of Bing Maps. Selecting the “road view” is useful to see the routes you can take and then toggle to the “satellite view” for visualising the buildings and modern housing estate projects. Link: bing map of the guidecca island – Search
The discovery of the Guidecca Island on foot starts here at its eastern end, overlooking the Bacino di San Marco and the beautiful island of Isola di San Giorgio Maggiore and its fine white Palladian church. The main attractions are numbered 1-12, as you walk from east to west.
The island is worth a whole day, but if that would be too much in one go; consider splitting the visit into two half days: San Giorgio Maggiore and attractions 1-6, then 7-12 on another occasion. Attractions 4 and 6, will give great panoramic views to the south; from a wealthy owners villa complex and the other, a fine example of industrial transformation into an architect designed housing estate.
1. The Belmond Hotel Cipriani, containing the Antachi Granai della Repubblica (Old Granaries) Giudecca 10, 30133 Venice
The hotel is renowned for its outstanding service, sophisticated interior, and picturesque outdoor spaces. It continues to be one of the premier luxury hotels globally, drawing both celebrities and high-profile figures.
Above. Note the relatively narrow channel between San Giorgio di Maggiore and the Hotel Cipriani on the Guidecca.
Located on the eastern end of the Giudecca Island, it was opened in 1958. Founded by Giuseppe Cipriani, (the creator of Harry’s Bar in Venice and the Bellini cocktail); the hotel was financed by the three daughters of the 2nd Earl of Iveagh, who each had a suite designed for themselves.
The hotel quickly gained acclaim for its luxurious Venetian furnishings, including Murano glass chandeliers, Fortuny fabrics, and Venetian artworks. In 1968, the hotel expanded to include an Olympic-sized swimming pool, the only pool in central Venice. The hotel further expanded into the adjacent 15th-century Palazzo Vendramin, offering views of the lagoon and St. Mark’s Square.
In 1976, the Hotel Cipriani became part of the Orient-Express Hotels Ltd, which later rebranded as Belmond. The hotel continued to grow, adding a restaurant on a floating pontoon in the lagoon and opening the “Old Granaries of the Republic” as an event space in 1990. In 2014, it was renamed the Belmond Hotel Cipriani as part of the rebranding.
A private shuttle boat operates a continuous service 24/7 for both guests and visitors; to a jetty infront of the Royal Gardens, San Marco waterfront.
Hotel Cipriani, Venice | First Among World-Class Venice Hotels (belmond.com)
2. Le Zitelle. Fondamenta Zitelle, Guidecca 33
A distinctive element of Giudecca’s skyline is the Church of Santa Maria della Presentazione, commonly known as “delle Zitelle.” Founded by Jesuit Benedetto Palmi, this church is part of a larger religious complex flanked by a convent on each side. Along the Fondamenta, the church exhibits a simple facade with scant ornamentation, arranged in two levels.
The Zitelle stop, with the Casa dei tre Orci and the Le Zitelle church behind it and the island San Giorgio di Maggiore, sunlit to the left.
Initiated in 1581 and completed in 1588, the edifice designed by Andrea Palladio served as a sanctuary for young, unmarried girls who were too impoverished to afford a dowry and might have otherwise been driven to prostitution. Girls aged 12 to 18 were welcomed and instructed in crafts like sewing and lace-making. They ultimately faced a choice between matrimony and monastic life. Reports from 1583 indicate that approximately 200 girls resided in the complex. In the 1970s, the women’s quarters were moved to the mainland. The institution acted as a preventive measure, in contrast to the nearby Convertite, which catered to women who had engaged in prostitution.
The interior boasts a central design topped with a dome, embellished with artworks by Jacopo Palma the Younger, Antonio Vassilacchi, and Francesco Bassano. Bassano is noted for his creation of “The Presentation of the Virgin in the Temple” situated on the high altar.
3. Casa dei tre Orci. Guidecca 43
The iconic neo-Gothic building on Giudecca was designed by artist Mario De Maria in 1913. Its three large ogival windows are said to have been inspired by the Ducal Palace. The Emilian painter built this new home in memory of his daughter Silvia, who had passed away a few years prior. Originally intended as a studio-home, it was inhabited by his son Astolfo and his wife, Adele.
The facade’s three windows symbolize the three surviving De Maria family members, while the mullioned window at the top represents the deceased daughter.
Until the late 1980s, the house served as a hub for artistic and cultural production, hosting meetings, debates, and artists participating in the Biennale, as well as visiting intellectuals. After restoration in 2012, it opened as a public exhibition space and, until 2021, operated as a photography museum before being acquired by the Berggruen Institute, a global think tank.
4. Villa Heriot. Calle Michaelangelo 54/P
Villa Heriot in Giudecca, Venice, has a fascinating history that intertwines its role in Giudecca’s transition, from aristocratic leisure to industrial pragmatism and back to cultural significance. It is located, due south of la Zitelle church, overlooking the southern lagoon; on the Calle Michaelangelo 54/P.
Giudecca saw significant changes, when Venice’s port activities expanded in the late 19th century. The island, once known for its large palazzos and gardens, transformed into an industrial zone with over a hundred manufacturing firms, attracting mostly European industrial elites. Post-WWI, majestic villas were constructed for factory owners on Giudecca. These villas, surrounded by high brick walls and lush gardens, became venues for high society events; contrasting with the life of working-class Venetians employed in its factories.
An English artist owned a small mansion on Giudecca after 1914, where he spent summers painting Venetian views. In 1920, the property was sold; but fortunately, avoided the intended use of becoming a cement storage site. In 1926, Madame Heriot the wife of the owner of the Grand Magasins du Louvre in Paris; purchased it with a vision for its development and preservation. The villa, designed by Raffaele Mainella in the Veneto-Byzantine style, reflects the cultural and architectural heritage of Venice. There is also a guest villa. Since its inauguration in 1929, Villa Heriot had been a place of sumptuous parties and social gatherings.
At the outbreak of WW2, the Heriots returned to France and the villa complex was requistioned by the Germans and later by the allied forces. Eventually, on January 25th 1949, the last heir of the Heriot family, sold the property to the Venice municipality and it became an elementary school and a facility for impoverished children suffering from tuberculosis.
Since 2000, the “Casa della Memoriae e della Storia” and “IVESER” (the Venice Institute for the Study of the History of the Resistance and Contemporary Society); are based at the villa complex. By request, you can visit the house, the garden and archive by guided tour.
5. The Chiesa del Santissimo Redentore. Fondamenta San Giacomo.
Known as “Il Redentore,” this significant 16th-century Roman Catholic church is situated on Giudecca Island in Venice. It serves as a symbol of thanksgiving and hope, crafted by the esteemed Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio.
Constructed as a votive church to show gratitude for Venice’s escape from a catastrophic plague between 1575 and 1576, which took approximately 46,000 lives, or 25-30% of the population, it was commissioned by the Senate of the Republic of Venice. Palladio designed the church with a single nave and three chapels on each side. Its facade, inspired by the Pantheon in Rome and its position on the Giudecca canal waterfront, makes it a striking feature of the island’s skyline. Set on a broad plinth, the entrance is reached by 15 steps, echoing the Temple of Jerusalem and fulfilling Palladio’s vision that “the ascent will be gradual, so that the climbing will bring more devotion.”
After Palladio’s death in 1580, Antonio de Ponte, famed for the Rialto Bridge, continued the work. The church was finished by 1592 and consecrated by Lorenzo Priuli, the Patriarch of Venice.
Above. The impressive Redentore church, constructed as a votive church to express gratitude for Venice’s deliverance from a devastating plague outbreak between 1575 and 1576.
The church is deeply cherished by the people of Venice. Consecrated in 1592, it has been under the care of the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin. More than just an architectural wonder, the church stands as a testament to the city’s enduring faith and resilience.
As part of the Chorus Association of Venetian Churches, it offers a reduced-price Chorus Pass for access to 16 churches and is home to works by renowned artists like Tintoretto, Paolo Veronese, and Francesco Bassano, enhancing its cultural and historical value. Il Redentore continues to be a vibrant center for worship, embodying the rich heritage and spirit of Venice.
The Festa del Redentore, or “Festival of the Redeemer,” is celebrated on the third Sunday of July. This event merges religious ceremonies, the erection of a pontoon bridge, a grand fireworks show, a regatta, and widespread festivities among family and friends. A notable feature is the 330-meter pontoon bridge that links the Zattere at the southern end of the Dorsoduro district to the Giudecca island.
The Festa del Redentore – Images of Venice
6. Junghans Factory Redevelopment. Campo Junghans.
Apart from the typical Venetian architecture, there are several former industrial sites that have been redeveloped a by leading archirects to provide semi-subsidised housing, university domitories, private dwellings and community facilities.
One such large site was the Junghans watch factory. that founded in Germany in 1861; began operations on Giudecca Island in 1878 and finally closed in 1993. During its operations, the factory produced watches, fuses, alarm clocks, time switches and kitchen programmers (production changes dependant on wartime activity and staffing levels). Junghans was a major employer of local people from the island.
Owners number of workers – (date)
F. Ili Hérion (1878 – 1899) 60 (1878) 300 (1914) 4,000 (1944) 269 (1950) 1037 (1974) 70 (1993)
Arturo Junghans (1899 – 1914)
Italian Government (1914 – 1922)
Arturo Junghans (1922 – 1945)
Italian Government (1945 – 1952)
Ernest Heimann (1952 – 1993)
During World War II, the factory was converted into a war production facility and his continued even after the war ended; reflecting the industrial significance of the area. Post-war, Junghans faced various challenges but remained; being one one of the last industrial spaces in Venice. The 1970s saw Junghans as a major industrial presence in the city, but eventually closed in 1993.
In the early 1990s, the Municipality of Venice initiated a project to transform the industrial area into a modern residential neighborhood. Italian architect Cino Zucchi won the project in 1995, leading to the renovation of the Junghans area. The renovation involved constructing new canals and docks while preserving Venetian spatial patterns. Today, the Junghans area is a vibrant neighborhood with residential buildings, a theatre, shops and housing; blending contemporary architecture with the island’s ancient parts.
For great photos of 1. the original factory site and 2. the new development – see the following two sites:
1.Junghans Watch Factory (arcgis.com)
2.Ex Junghans neighborhood – Atlante architettura contemporanea (cultura.gov.it)
7. Convento Santi Cosma e Damiano. Calle Cosmo, Guidecca 620
From the Palanca vaporetto stop, walk west a few hundred metres to the Sant’Eufemia church and turn down the Fondamenta del Rio di Sant’Eufemia and its just past the bridge on the left.
The convent was founded in 1481 by Marina Celsi, who followed the rules of Benedictine monasticism and clausura (strict encloisterment). It quickly became a prominent and prestigious religious institution; attracting young women of noble Venetian families, who brought significant dowries. The convent expanded and enriched itself with artworks, including a piece by Giovanni Buonconsiglio in 1497.
By the early 16th century, the convent housed over a hundred nuns and during the 18th century; it was adorned with works by renowned artists like Palma il Giovane, Tintoretto, and Giovanni Battista Tiepolo.
Following the Napoleonic conques in 1815, it disbanded and many of the convent’s art treasures were dispersed and only a few remain in museums or other churches today. The convent became a military barracks, then a shelter for the poor and in 1903 a knitwear plant which destroyed the interior. Closed down in 1982, the complex was bought by the Venetian authorities and by 1992 changed into apartments, workshops and performance spaces.
Today, you can visit the wonderful large cloister, which holds the Fondazione Bevilacqua La Masa art studios and the extensive archives of the Fondazione Luigi Nono; left by the Venetian-born avant garde composer (1924-1990).
8. The Church of Sant’Eufemia. Fondamenta del Rio di Sant’Eufemia, Guidecca 680.
The church is located on the main fondamenta, just west of the Giudecca Palanca vaporetto stop.
Constructed in the 9th century in the Venetian-Byzantine style, it was consecrated to honor the four martyrs of Aquileia: Eufemia, Dorotea, Tecla, and Erasma.
Throughout the 18th century, the building underwent numerous renovations that altered its original appearance, especially the facade. The exterior of the church presents a very modest look, with a white plaster facade that is unadorned except for the two semicircular windows reminiscent of Palladio’s art. The external atrium, positioned on the church’s left side, faces the Giudecca Canal and features a Doric colonnade; its elements were sourced from the choir designed by Michele Sanmicheli in the nearby Church of Saints Biagio and Cataldo.
In contrast, the interior offers a distinct Renaissance elegance blended with 18th-century decorative stuccos and restorations. The church’s design is a basilica with three naves, retaining the columns and capitals from the original edifice. Notable among its many monuments is the sculptural ensemble by Gianmaria Morlaiter, depicting “The Virgin and Christ on her knees.” Additionally, the ceiling’s artwork narrates the life of Saint Eufemia.
9. Le Convertite. Fondamenta della Convertite,
The building is situated in the middle of this island section, on the Fondamenta della Convertite.
It is a site with a rich and complex history. Originally, around 1545, it was the Augustinian convent of Santa Maria Maddalena; for nuns and a hospice for reformed prostitutes and other women, who were considered sexually tainted. Unfortunately, the institution became infamous due to the sexual misconduct of its rector, Fra Giovanni Pietro Leon; who was convicted and beheaded in the Piazza San Marco!
The building became a hospital in 1806 and a prison in 1857. You can now visit the weekly market on Thursday mornings , when the female prisoners sell produce from their vegetable garden, on the fondamenta infront of the prison. They also work for the social co-operative “Rio Tera dei Pensieri”, creating artisanal objects for retail.
10. The Fortuny. Guidecca 805.
The Fortuny factory sits adjacent to the Giudecca canal waterfront, directly across from the grand Molino Stucky building complex.
Renowned for its historical significance, the Fortuny location encompasses the original factory and showroom of the esteemed luxury textile company. Founded by Spanish artist and inventor Mariano Fortuny y Madrazo in 1921, it remains a bastion of art and craftsmanship, dedicated to producing exquisite fabrics and items.
Visitors to the Fortuny showroom are treated to an immersive experience, with the opportunity to explore and acquire handmade items that embody the innovative spirit and elegance of Venetian culture. The showroom is celebrated for its fusion of contemporary art and furniture within a historic context, demonstrating expertise in interior design and featuring the unparalleled textiles of Fortuny.
For those interested in visiting, the showroom welcomes guests by appointment, Monday through Saturday, from 10:00 to 18:00.
The Museum of Palazzo Fortuny, his former home and workshop, located in the San Marco district, is well worth visiting. Please see my post : 9 – Museo Fortuny – Images of Venice
11. Molino Stucky. Guidecca 810.
The Molino Stucky in Venice is a striking example of neo-Gothic architecture, on the western end of Giudecca island.
It was designed by Ernst Wullekopf and constructed between 1884 and 1895 by Giovanni Stucky, a Swiss businessman whose family had ties to the region through marriage. The brick facade, hides a steel and concrete structure. Originally built as a flour mill, it was one of Europe’s largest, employing up to 1,500 workers and symbolizing industrial progress. However, the mill faced labour disputes and in 1910, he was murdered by a factory worker. Following decline, it was finally closed in 1955.
Above. View from the Dorsoduro, across to the neo-Gothic style Molino Stucky, a 5* hotel and apartment complex.
After decades of abandonment, the complex was purchased in 1994, with the intent to transform it into a hotel. A significant restoration began and despite a major fire in 2003, the Hilton Molino Stucky Venice opened in 2007. Today, it stands as a five-star hotel, preserving its historical significance while serving as a modern luxury destination.
This full facility hotel, has an impressive Skyline bar and pool on its top floor, overlooking the Guidecca canal and Venice. See this and other amazing venues, in my post on Campaniles and Roof-Top Terraces; that offer new perspectives on the city, as well as a truly memorable experience.
Discover the best panoramic views for sight-seeing, or cocktails and dining: Best High Views in Venice – Images of Venice
12. Sacca Fisola Housing Developments
This island is artificial, having been developed as part of a broader reclamation project for the lagoon. Other than the Junghans development by Cino Zucchi, there are two other significant architect designed areas of modern urban planning; with open spaces, small streets, gardens, moorings, sporting facilities and a public swimming pool.
The housing developments on Sacca Fisola include projects from different eras; reflecting the architectural evolution of the area. For instance, there are buildings dating from the 1950s. More recent projects include 1. Gino Valle (1980-86). 2. Mainardis, Cappas and Pastor (1982-9). 3. Cino Zuchi (1997-2000). 4. Gambirasio (1980) brewery complex conversion, incorporating two art galleries on the ground floor. 5. Campo di Marte by Álvaro Siza, (completed in 2016), for the Architecture Biennale.
These developments reflect the island’s evolution from an industrial hub to a modern residential area; blending historical elements with contemporary design.
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Please see my other posts in the category of “History and Architecture “
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