Discover the Underground Museum in Chiesa di San Zaccaria

The Basics

The Chiesa di San Zaccaria, designed by Antonio Gambello, is known for its unique architectural feature: an ambulatory that curves behind the altar with chapels radiating out, a rarity in Italy. Inside, you’ll find Giovanni Bellini’s masterpiece, La Sacra Conversazione, and works by Tintoretto and Tiepolo. The church, often included in group or private walking or canal tours, provides a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist spots.

The Chapels and the Crypt

The underground museum in Chiesa di San Zaccaria includes three chapels and a crypt. The Cappella di San Tarasio is notable for its late Gothic masterpieces and frescoes by Andrea del Castagno and Francesco da Faenza, which are the earliest examples of Renaissance painting in Venice. The crypt, which frequently floods, creating a reflective pool, contains the funeral bodies of Venice’s doges from the 9th century.

Must-See Artworks

• Giovanni Bellini’s La Sacra Conversazione (1505): One of the most important works of modern art, this altarpiece bridges the gap between Piero della Francesca, Giorgione, and Titian.
• Andrea del Castagno’s Frescoes (1442-1444): Located in the Chapel of San Tarasio, these are some of the earliest examples of Renaissance painting in Venice.
• Alessandro Vittoria’s Tomb: The renowned sculptor created his own monument, which can be found in the crypt.
• Palma il Vecchio’s Madonna and Child with Saints (1512): Located in the Chapel of Sant’Atanasio, this piece is a must-see for Renaissance art lovers.
• Baroque Lunettes: Created by artists like Antonio Zanchi, Andrea Celesti, and Giovanni Antonio Fumiani, these are located at the end of the 17th century.

Tips for Tourists

• Suitable for All: Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, San Zaccaria offers something for everyone.
• Tours and Guides: Check if your tour includes a guide and round-trip hotel transport, as food and drink are typically not included.
• Entrance: Look for a nondescript door marked “please close door behind you” in Campo San Zaccaria; a docent will usually be available to assist you.
• Illumination: To fully appreciate Bellini’s La Sacra Conversazione, slip some change into the box to illuminate the altarpiece.

How to Get There

Located in the Castello neighborhood of Venice, just southeast of Piazza San Marco, San Zaccaria is easily accessible by foot from central Venice. Alternatively, you can take a water taxi to the San Zaccaria vaporetto stop.

When to Visit

San Zaccaria is open from Monday to Saturday, 10am – 12pm, and Sunday from 4pm – 6pm. The best times to visit Venice are late spring and early summer, although these periods can be crowded and expensive. To avoid the throngs of tourists, consider visiting in early spring or early to mid-autumn.

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Sunday: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Ticket Prices:

• Entrance to the church: Free
• Entrance to the chapels and crypt: Approximately $1 USD
• Entry to the crypt for viewing the flooded area and the tombs: €3.5