The Santa Maria della Salute Basilica

St Mark’s Square isn’t the only place in Venice with iconic landmarks… Located in the Dorsoduro district, at the southern end of the Grand Canal, the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute is both symbolically and physically significant for Venetians. In the early 17th century, the Italian city suffered a terrible plague outbreak. Amidst the despair, the Venetian Senate turned to the Virgin Mary. They prayed for her to protect the city and put an end to the disease, which wiped out nearly a third of the population in less than two years. After praying to the heavens, Venice was miraculously freed from the plague. As a gesture of gratitude, the city began construction of the basilica in 1631. Built along the Grand Canal, over a million wooden stilts were used to support the monumental Baroque structure. After multiple demolitions and 56 years of construction, the basilica was finally completed in 1687. Its unique octagonal shape, two domes, and two bell towers make it one of a kind, and visible from across the canal. While the exterior is adorned with detailed decor and more than 125 statues, the interior is more minimalist, filled with natural light.