Dorsoduro

Dorsoduro, located on the East Bank of the Canal Grande, is situated on the largest area of firm land in Venice.  Within the district are several important, cultural sites, like the Santa Maria della Salute, the Ponte dell’Academia (highlighted in purple on the map), and several museums housed in old palaces.  More modern endeavors include the Záttere waterfront and a prison.

Campo Santa Margherita

Campo Santa Margherita (highlighted in red) was named for San Margaret, a church that closed in 1810, functioned as a cinema, and is now being restored.  In the 19th century, several canals in the area were filled in and the square was enlarged.  This site is the social heart of Dorsoduro.  Ringed by houses that date from the fourteenth century, the campo is the site of many bars and market stalls.  Local university students - who thrive on the somewhat alternative atmosphere created by the whole food stores, herbal shops, and natural clothing venues - frequent the area. 

Santa Maria della Salute

The dominant church in Dorsoduro is the Santa Maria della Salute. More than 100,000 wooden piles have supported this impressive building since 1681.  This dramatic structure is a symbol of the Venice’s deliverance from the devastating plague of 1630-1631.  (Salute actually means “health” and “salvation.”)


  
Santa Maria della Salute
(University of Michigan)

Santa Maria della Salute
(University of Michigan)
 


Courtyard façade - Accademia


Tempesta Giorgione

 

Accademia di Belle Art

The Accademia, a school that is overshadowed by the Gallerie dell’Accademia, which it houses within its walls.  The museum is a component of the must-see tourist triad (along with the Palazzo Ducale and San Marco) and attracts throngs of people throughout the year.  Its 180-person limit leaves travelers standing in lines for long hours, waiting to glimpse famous Venetian works like Giorgione’s Tempesta.

Záttere

The Záttere (highlighted in blue) section of Dorsoduro is the waterfront.  Named for the floating záttere or rafts that collected bulky goods arriving in Venice.  The Magazzini del Sale, or Salt Warehouses that lie on the Záttere, held the majority of this cargo.  Now converted to boat houses, these low structures provide a backdrop for tourists, walking off an al fresco pizza available at one of the many cafés along the strip.  The Záttere is the site of one of Venice’s most recent urban planning developments, which is attempting to lure back young locals to the area by providing services and housing that is attractive, affordable, and durable.