Santa Maria Della Salute is a Venetian landmark and a major place of worship. Most postcards of the city feature an image of its eye-catching dome. Near the mouth of the Grand Canal, this beautiful Basilica stands as a beacon to those who enter the city. Its lofty domes, white stones, and ornate statues all sparkle magnificently in the sunlight.
The plague decimated most of the Veneto region beginning in 1630, and the Basilica was constructed in its memory. In 1630, the Senate of Venice made a formal plea on behalf of the church to the Virgin Mary. In gratitude for her help on behalf of Venice, the Senate offered Madonna this church. It was a gift to Madonna, the 'Lady of Health.'
At least 100,000 pylons were pushed down into the Barene (mudbanks) to stabilize the tip of Dorsoduro before construction on 'La Salute' could begin. Although the Madonna was an obvious source of motivation, the foundation of La Salute may be found in a variety of architectural and spiritual practices. Experts in architecture have drawn parallels between the distinctive domed octagonal structure of Longhena and Greek and Roman temples dedicated to goddesses and Jewish Kabbalah.
Dorsoduro, 1, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy
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