You are here: Churches of Venice | Chiesa del Redentore - Giudecca

Church of the Redeemer in Giudecca – History, Art and the Festa del Redentore

Tips and info on Church of the Redeemer

Index: Chiesa del Redentore - Giudecca

The Church of the Most Holy Redeemer, commonly known as Il Redentore, is one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks. Its bright white façade overlooking the Giudecca Canal symbolizes a story of faith, gratitude and rebirth. The church was built as a votive church to give thanks for the end of the devastating plague of 1575–1577, which claimed tens of thousands of lives in Venice.

Designed by Andrea Palladio, master of Renaissance architecture, the Church of the Redeemer stands at the heart of religious life on Giudecca and is the focal point of one of Venice’s most beloved annual celebrations: the Festa del Redentore, held every year on the third Sunday of July, featuring a temporary votive bridge and spectacular fireworks over the lagoon.

A votive church born from the plague

In the late 16th century, Venice was struck by one of the most severe plague outbreaks in its history. As the city faced enormous loss and suffering, the Venetian Senate vowed to build a church dedicated to Christ the Redeemer if the epidemic came to an end.

The plague eventually subsided, and in 1577 the Senate commissioned Andrea Palladio to design the new church. Construction began immediately, and although the building was completed and consecrated in 1592, worship services were held much earlier, reinforcing the strong bond between the church and the people of Venice.

Since then, the Redentore has stood as a powerful symbol of Venice’s resilience, faith and collective memory.

The architecture of Andrea Palladio

The Church of the Redeemer is considered one of Palladio’s architectural masterpieces. Inspired by classical Roman temples, the façade features a harmonious composition of overlapping pediments that create a striking visual rhythm when viewed from the water.

The church is elevated above the quay by a broad staircase of steps, enhancing its monumental appearance and reinforcing the spiritual transition from the earthly world to the sacred interior.

Inside, Palladio opted for a single nave flooded with light, flanked by three chapels on each side and crowned by a large central dome. The interior’s white surfaces, balanced proportions and clarity of space reflect Palladio’s vision of architectural harmony and spiritual serenity.

Artworks inside the Church of the Redeemer

Beyond its architectural value, the Church of the Redeemer houses important works of art by leading Venetian painters of the late Renaissance. The church is part of the Chorus Churches circuit, which brings together Venice’s most significant historic churches.

Among the artists represented inside are:

Paolo Veronese, with works such as the Baptism of Christ, created with the assistance of his sons and preserved in the sacristy.
Francesco Bassano, author of expressive religious scenes including the Nativity and the Resurrection.
Tintoretto and his workshop, with dramatic compositions marked by dynamic movement and strong emotional intensity.
Palma il Giovane and other Venetian masters, whose paintings enrich the chapels and liturgical spaces.

The sacristy also deserves attention for its collection of religious objects and artworks, closely linked to the devotional history of the church.

The Festa del Redentore and the votive bridge

The Church of the Redeemer is at the heart of the Festa del Redentore, one of the most deeply felt celebrations in Venice. Every year, a temporary pontoon bridge is built across the Giudecca Canal, connecting the Zattere area to the island and allowing pilgrims to reach the church on foot.

The festivities blend sacred tradition and popular celebration. On Saturday night, Venetians gather for dinners on boats and along the waterfront, followed by an impressive fireworks display lighting up the lagoon. On Sunday, the celebrations continue with religious services and traditional rowing regattas along the Giudecca Canal.

The island of Giudecca

Giudecca is a long, narrow island facing Venice’s historic center, separated by the wide Giudecca Canal. Once home to monasteries, gardens and later industrial facilities, it is now a peaceful residential area known for its authentic atmosphere and stunning views of San Marco and the lagoon.

Less crowded than central Venice, Giudecca offers a slower pace of life, ideal for visitors seeking a quieter and more local side of the city. Walking along its waterfront reveals hidden courtyards, historic churches and former industrial buildings transformed into cultural spaces and hotels.

How to reach the Church of the Redeemer

The church is located on the island of Giudecca, directly facing the city of Venice.

By vaporetto:

From Piazzale Roma or Santa Lucia Railway Station, use ACTV lines serving the Giudecca Canal, stopping at Redentore or Giudecca Palanca, followed by a short walk.
From San Marco or Zattere, take a direct vaporetto to Giudecca.

On foot: the church can only be reached on foot during the Festa del Redentore, when the votive bridge is installed across the Giudecca Canal.

Opening hours and visitor information

The Church of the Redeemer is an active place of worship and part of Venice’s cultural heritage. Access may require an entrance ticket or contribution outside religious services. Visitors are advised to check updated opening hours before visiting, especially during the Festa del Redentore or restoration periods.

Appropriate attire and respectful behavior are required. Photography may be restricted during services.

What to see near the Church of the Redeemer

A visit to the Church of the Redeemer can be combined with a wider exploration of Giudecca:

A walk along the Giudecca waterfront with panoramic views over San Marco, Punta della Dogana and the Basilica della Salute.
The Church of the Zitelle, another historic religious complex overlooking the lagoon.
Former industrial buildings converted into hotels and cultural venues, reflecting Giudecca’s evolving identity.
Hidden gardens and quiet squares, perfect for relaxing away from the crowds.