Venice’s 15th Century Masterpiece: Ca’ d’Oro - The Golden Palace
The Golden House which is located in Venice is known for some of the most outstanding works of architecture in the area. The city is well renowned for this, and their claim to fame is truly deserved.
For centuries, Venice has been a main European trade center and has taken influences from places like the Middle East and others throughout the continent. This cosmopolitan city’s architecture has been affected with a mixture of its influences.
Ca’ d’Oro was constructed during the 15th century and resides next to the main waterway of the town, the Grand Canal. After the mid 1400’s it served as home to the Contarini family who were one of the quasi-noble and respected families of the area. The family gave 8 of its number as Doges to Venice between the years of 1043 and 1676.
Once adorned in gold leaf, which helped give the building its name, the pink and white facade hold very little relevance to the Greek. A near floral design is present on the premises, the work of Giovanni Bon who was a well known architect during the time it was built.
Located on the ground floor is the entrance, where it is accessible from the canal level in the colonnaded loggia. An enclosed balcony can be found above the entrance which is located on the upper floor and close to the art gallery which offers very impressive views.
A sense of peace can be found outside of the bustling city at the inner courtyard, as long as it’s not at a time when many visitors are crowding the area. The Vera di pozzo, known also as the wellhead, is an interesting sight to enjoy when relaxing in the courtyard.
In one room, you can find Flemish tapestries from the 16th century. In another room close by, a collection of bronzes that stem from times between the 12th and 16th centuries can be explored. Throughout all the rooms, plenty of furniture from almost every time period can be enjoyed.
Paintings that are on par with those found in the near by Gallerie dell’ Accademia are displayed here, those such as Mantegna’s “San Sebastiano” and Titan’s “Venus at the Mirror”. Thanks to the works of Van Dyke and Jan Steen, the Dutch even managed to find their artwork in Venice.
An inspiring view of the Grand Canal can be enjoyed on the upper floor balcony, and getting a close-up view of the quatrefoil intricately carved in the windows shouldn’t be passed up. Another marvel when visiting the balcony are the polychrome marble incrustations to be found.
Easy access from this loggia to a small room grants sights of invaluable ceramics. These include kitchenware - cups and plates - all which would impress even the richest in Venice during the 15th century.
The Gold House in Ca’ d’Oro won’t disappoint those looking for a treasure in Venice.
