Holidays with the Family

As one of the most amazing works of architecture, Ca’ d’Oro has quite a claim to being world renowned and they definitely deserve the honor.

Venice enjoyed influences from the Middle East as well as throughout the continent when it comes to trade. Being a main European trade center, this has affected Venice’s architecture among other things, helping to make it a top cosmopolitan city.

Both Ca’ d’Oro and the Grand Canal, which is the main waterway in the charming town, were built in the mid 15th century. The Contarini family made Ca’ d’Oro their home after 1430, and gave eight of its leaders to the town between 1043 and 1676.

Once adorned in gold leaf, which helped give the building its name, the pink and white facade hold very little relevance to the Greek. A near floral design is present on the premises, the work of Giovanni Bon who was a well known architect during the time it was built.

In a colonnaded loggia accessible from the canal level, you will find the entrance on the ground floor. An awe inspiring enclosed balcony located upstairs can be found right outside the art gallery. Although this view from outside is impressive, once inside it’s even more so.

A sense of peace can be found outside of the bustling city at the inner courtyard, as long as it’s not at a time when many visitors are crowding the area. The Vera di pozzo, known also as the wellhead, is an interesting sight to enjoy when relaxing in the courtyard.

16th century Flemish Tapestries are displayed in one room, while in another, a collection of bronzes can be found which date between the 12th and 16th centuries. Just about every time period can be experienced through the furniture decorating the rooms throughout the premises.

Paintings found in the world famous Gallerie dell’Accademia are good examples of the kind of quality that can be found here. By Titian, “Venus at the Mirror” can be found as well as Manegna’s “San Sebastiano”. Other gorgeous paintings displayed are by Giorgione, Carpaccio and Tintoretto among others. Impressively, Van Dyke and Jan Steel made it possible for Dutch artwork to make it to Venice.

The Grand Canal in all its glory can be seen from the balcony outside, where breathtaking views abound. The Quatrefoil windows display intricate carvings worth taking a look at, so get close and personal when taking in all the sights on the balcony. Located on the second floor, the polychrome marble incrustations on the balcony should not be overlooked.

Outstanding ceramics found in a small room off of the loggia are well worth seeing, as kitchenware - including cups and plates - would impress even the wealthy in Venice during the 15th century.

The Gold House in Ca’ d’Oro won’t disappoint those looking for a treasure in Venice.

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