Chiesa di San Giovanni Elemosinario (Church of St. John the Almsgiver), Venice

Chiesa di San Giovanni Elemosinario (Church of St. John the Almsgiver), Venice

The Church of Saint John the Almsgiver is tightly squeezed among the surrounding buildings, with its 15th-century bell tower being the only prominent sign of its existence. Originally established in the 11th century, it suffered severe damage during the massive fire of 1514. Only the bell tower survived, and after the church was reconstructed between 1527 and 1529 according to designs by Scarpagnino, a bell was rung every evening as a signal for all fires to be extinguished for the night.

The majority of the church's ornamentation dates back to the decades following its reconstruction. It houses several paintings by the prolific Palma il Giovane, as well as artworks by Leonardo Corona. However, the most notable pieces are the high altarpiece by Titian titled "Saint John the Almsgiver," depicting the 7th-century Patriarch of Alexandria, and Pordenone's nearby painting "Saints Catherine, Sebastian, and Roch". The latter portrays a robust and monumental San Sebastiano, with his nearly naked figure exuding strength, a vibrant and absorbed Santa Caterina gazing skyward, and a spontaneous San Rocco displaying a healed leg, symbolizing his recovery from the bubonic plague. Additionally, the cupola features frescoes by Pordenone, showcasing a group of cherubs with robust figures.

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Chiesa di San Giovanni Elemosinario (Church of St. John the Almsgiver) on Map

Sight Name: Chiesa di San Giovanni Elemosinario (Church of St. John the Almsgiver)
Sight Location: Venice, Italy (See walking tours in Venice)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Venice, Italy

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