Contarini del Bovolo staircase

The Scala Contarini del Bovolo, located in the San Marco district in Venice, is one of the most fascinating and lesser-known monuments in the city. This extraordinary spiral staircase, named after the Venetian term “bovolo” which means “snail”, is a true architectural gem of the late 15th century. The Scala del Bovolo was commissioned by Pietro Contarini in 1499 as part of the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo. Pietro’s goal was to create a distinctive element that reflected the prestige of the Contarini family, one of the most important in the Republic of Venice. Despite the restrictions imposed by the Serenissima against the construction of luxurious buildings by noble families, Pietro managed to give his palace a unique touch thanks to this spectacular staircase. The structure of the Scala del Bovolo is a fascinating mix of architectural styles. The staircase, rising 26 meters, consists of a series of arcades supported by Istrian stone columns, with Gothic and Renaissance influences. Its elegance lies in its open shape, which allows it to be admired from every angle. The columns, which progressively become smaller as you ascend, create an optical effect that accentuates the illusion of height. At the top of the staircase is a belvedere from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the rooftops of Venice. From here, you can admire the Campanile of San Marco, the Basilica of San Giovanni e Paolo, and the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute. This panoramic point was originally used not only to enjoy the view but also to demonstrate the power and wealth of the Contarini family. Over the centuries, the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo and its staircase have undergone various changes in ownership and uses. In the 19th century, the palace became an inn and hosted numerous illustrious figures, including the German astronomer Ernst Wilhelm Tempel, who discovered the comet C/1859 and the Merope nebula of the Pleiades from the belvedere of the staircase. This episode adds an additional layer of charm and curiosity to the history of the place. In the 20th century, the Scala Contarini del Bovolo fell into a period of decay and abandonment. It was only in the 1980s and 1990s that significant restoration work was undertaken to stabilize the structure and restore its original beauty. During these restorations, the iron and brick additions made in the 19th century that had compromised the integrity of the staircase were removed. An interesting anecdote concerns Hugo Pratt, the creator of the comic “Corto Maltese”, who found inspiration for his character in one of the inhabitants of the palace, a mysterious Maltese sailor. This detail emphasizes the connection between the staircase and Venetian culture, which continues to influence and inspire artists and creatives from around the world. From a historical and social perspective, the Scala Contarini del Bovolo represents a symbol of Venetian greatness and ingenuity. Its construction was an act of defiance against the restrictions of the Republic, but also an expression of the desire for beauty and distinction that characterized the noble families of the time. The staircase is a perfect example of how architecture can reflect the aspirations and ambitions of a society, becoming a lasting icon of its culture.