Cannaregio and the Jewish Ghetto

The sestiere of Cannaregio occupies the north-western area beetween the Canal Grande and the lagoon, its name was probably originated by the reeds (canne) once growing here. Popular houses stand side by side with aristocratic mansions and their spacious gardens, in this still densely populated but peaceful environment, rich of art and traditions. Walking along the still canals we’ll meet the lovely gothic church of Madonna dell’Orto, decorated with some extraordinary paintings by Jacopo Tintoretto and the quiet Campo dei Mori, surrounded by the stone images of the levantine merchants who lived here in the XIIth century. A bit further on we’ll find the entrance into the Ghetto, where the Jewish community lived from 1516 up to the fall of the Republic, when Napoleon opened its gates for good. Around the two squares, amidst the tall buildings, rise the five ancient synagogues representing different ethnic groups and rites. The small museum houses a collection of ritual objects and documents.

Duration: minimum 2 hours
Entrance into the Jewish Museum and visit to the Synagogues not included.
Extra costs: entrance into Madonna dell’Orto church