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Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari

  • Venice, Veneto, Italy

Last updated: 29 March, 2024

Of all Venice’s many churches, the huge, barn-like Frari is one of the most art-packed. The Franciscans started on the present Gothic church in 1338 and finished in 1469; it boasts the second-highest bell tower in the city and a severe exterior, but once inside, the quality of the art is extraordinary.

The assault begins as you go in when your eyes are drawn immediately to the High Alter and Titian’s vivid, soaring Assumption. Other works by Titian to look out for include his Madonna di Ca’ Pesaro (1519).

The Sacristy contains one of Giovanni Bellini’s greatest paintings, the Madonna and Child with Saints. To the left of the high alter is the fabulous Reniassance tomb of Doge Niccolò Tron (1473) by Antonio Rizzo.

Don’t miss

Titian himself (who died in the 1576 plague) is buried in the church; his rather ugly tomb (added in the 19th century) is in the second chapel on the right as you enter the church.

Logistics

Price from: £2
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

The church is a 15-minute walk from the station and five minutes from the San Tomà vaporetto stop. Audio guides are available for a small extra fee.

After your art fill, head to Caffè Dersut, just by the side of the Frari church. It’s a good place to refuel with a cappuccino and some delicious pastries.

When to do it

The church is open daily, all year round (closed Sunday mornings). There are rarely queues to get in; off-season visitors may have the place to themselves.

Who to go with: organised tours

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