Palazzo Barbarigo (Barbarigo Palace), Venice

Originally constructed in the 16th century and formerly owned by Venice's largest glass factory proprietors, the Barbarigo Palace stands out for its exterior adorned with Murano glass mosaics. These mosaics, added in 1886, are said to have been inspired by the similarly adorned facade of Saint Mark's Basilica.

Nonetheless, upon completion of the front mosaic, the aristocratic neighbors were less than impressed. They accused the new owners of the palace of being "nouveau riches" with a taste that they considered garish and out of touch with the elegant decay of the surrounding buildings. This criticism was unfair, as many Renaissance palaces along the Grand Canal were once adorned with vibrant polychrome and gilt decorations, showcasing elaborate plaster and stucco work that only enhanced their magnificence.

Today, the Barbarigo Palace stands as one of the most extravagant architectural gems along the Grand Canal. The central frieze mosaic portrays 35 cherubs actively engaged in various artistic endeavors, such as painting, drawing, sculpture, and architecture. Two separate murals commemorate visits by royal figures to Venice: one depicts Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne conversing with Titian on the scaffold of Saint Mark's Basilica during a visit in the 16th century, while the other portrays French King Henry III arriving on the Doge's barge accompanied by a team of glass-makers in 1574.

Above these scenes, the portraits of two renowned Venetian painters, Titian and Tintoretto, can be found. One portrait is crowned by the lion of Saint Mark, symbolizing Venice, while the other features the rooster, symbolizing Murano.

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Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: Palazzo Barbarigo (Barbarigo Palace)
Sight Location: Venice, Italy (See walking tours in Venice)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Grand Canal Walking Tour

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