Santa Croce

The sestiere of Santa Croce is located in the north-western part of Venice. When you arrive in Venice, you will most likely pass through this sestiere.

Santa Croce together with the sestiere of San Polo shared the name, Luprio. The name comes from the fact that Santa Croce and San Polo were marshy areas infested with dangerous animals such as wolves. After various reclamations, the marshes became space for vegetable gardens and vineyards. Today's sestiere takes its name from the Church of Santa Croce, no longer visible because it was destroyed by Napoleon's troops.  This sestiere is divided into two parts. The eastern part is the old part and the western part developed mainly in the 20th century.  Here coexist the historical past of Venice with its narrow streets and the modern as Piazzale Roma, Ponte della Libertà and the artificial island of Tronchetto. Piazzale Roma and Tronchetto are the only areas where vehicles are allowed, so keep this in mind when you visit Venice.

Santa Croce is a sestiere of narrow streets and alleyways but also has historic palaces on the Grand Canal. The centre of social life is Campo San Giacomo dall'Orio with its ancient Gothic-Byzantine church and bell tower. Of particular note is the Venetian Baroque Ca Pesaro, which houses the permanent gallery of modern art. Another stop in the sestriere is the church of St Nicholas of Tolentino. Although it is the least visited area, here you will find beautiful sights such as the Fondaco dei Turchi and the Ponte degli Scalzi which crosses the Grand Canal.

Every nook and cranny of Venice has plenty to offer even if you deviate from the traditional itineraries. Santa Croce has a lot to offer with its characteristic and crowded calle. Here, as well as learning more about Venice, you can experience the true modern Venetian lifestyle.