One of the most characteristic places in the Venetian lagoon is the island of Giudecca. Venetians call it Zudeca and it was originally called Spinalunga as it is the longest island in the lagoon. The island is well connected but very quiet and belongs to the Dorsoduro sestiere. Giudecca is separated from Venice by the canal of the same name, the Giudecca Canal.  This tranquillity has allowed the flourishing of cloistered churches, monasteries but also houses of wealthy and noble Venetians. 

Giudecca is not only a place of great serenity, but also a place of culture and art. Probably the Basilica del Redentore is the religious and cultural heart of the island. The Basilica del Redentore is the work of Andrea Palladio, a triumph of classical Renaissance art. The white marble exterior will impress you with its geometry and rigour. The interior will enrapture you with its lights and works of art, such as those by Tintoretto and Veronese. The Redentore Festival is held here in July, an event commemorating the end of the terrible plague at the end of the 16th century.  

Another important stop is the Chiesa delle Zitelle, a Renaissance-style church that was once a convent for orphan girls. This is why the church was given the name Chiesa delle Zitelle. The original name was Church of Santa Maria della Presentazione. Inside you will be struck by the vaulted dome and the altarpiece entitled "Presentation of the Virgin in the Temple" by Francesco Bassano. Inside you will find other works such as those by Palma il Giovane and Antonio Vassilacchi.

Another marvel is the Church of St Euphemia, with its frescoed ceilings depicting the life of St Euphemia. The Venetian Gianmaria Morlaiter's sculpture of 'The Virgin with Christ on her knees' is another reason to visit the church. 

The island of Giudecca is home to well-known workshops of Venetian craftsmen and artists. It is pleasant to stroll through the streets of Giudecca in search of some handicrafts to support the local economy. The island has also been home to famous artists. One of these was the painter and architect Mario de Maria who lived in the Casa dei Tre Oci, designed by himself.  The magnificent Casa dei Tre Oci takes its name from the shape of its windows, shaped like three eyes.  This incredible building overlooking the Giudecca Canal is one of the most photographed places in the lagoon. This is a neo-gothic building with Venetian themes and used to host artists from all over the world passing through Venice. 

Giudecca is a beautiful tongue of land filled with art and history that will make your experience even more unique.