Palazzo Grassi is not only one of the finest palaces on the Venice map. It is also one of the city's most renowned contemporary art museums. Together with Punta della Dogana, located in Dorsoduro, Palazzo Grassi is part of the Pinault Collection. It is an incredible exhibition space and is one of the best-known Venice museums.
Palazzo Grassi stands on the Grand Canal and is part of the San Marco neighborhood. It is a walking distance from most central Venice attractions, including St Mark’s Basilica. But you can get there by using the vaporetto and getting off at S. Samuele. The museum's open daily except Tuesdays. Venetian residents and students enjoy discounts and special visiting days.
The Palazzo Grassi is a Venetian Classical-style palace. Its design is somewhat unconventional in regards to the typical Venice palazzos. The story of the building starts with the Grassi family, which acquired it in the 17th century. They commissioned the design to Giorgio Massari, the architect behind the Ca' Rezzonico. Parts of the building, like ceilings and staircases, are works of artists like Michelangelo Morlaiter, Canale, and Alessandro Longhi. After the Grassi family sold the Palazzo Grassi in 1840, there were a few various owners. In the mid-1900s, the building was the venue for the International Center of Arts and Costume. Since 2005, the palace, redesigned by Tadao Ando, has been part of the Pinault Collection.
The Palazzo Grassi is one of the most impressive and modern Venice museums. Run by the French art collector Francois Pinault, it has one of the world's most remarkable art collections. The museum hosts temporary exhibitions with works by contemporary artists and photographers. These include Damien Hirst, Luc Tuymans, Marlene Dumas, and others. Besides, the museum in the Palazzo Grassi often hosts various events. Most occur in the famous Teatrino, an auditorium for over 200 people, redesigned by Tadao Ando. Unlike Punta della Dogana, the exhibitions usually focus on one specific artist.
The area around the Palazzo Grassi breathes culture. It is close to the Accademia Bridge, leading travelers to the famous Accademia Gallery. The legendary La Fenice Theater is about 10 minutes away. It is a Venetian icon with intricate decor, fantastic frescoes, and rich history. For an enhanced cultural experience, we recommend visiting Museo della Musica. There are a few Venice churches, including Chiesa di San Vidal. You can easily find them by using our interactive Venice map.