Church of Santa Maria del Giglio

The Church of Santa Maria del Giglio, also known as Santa Maria Zobenigo, is a magnificent example of Baroque architecture located in the San Marco district of Venice. Originally built in the 9th century by the patrician Jubanico (or Zobenigo) family, the church underwent several transformations over the centuries, eventually reaching its current form thanks to a reconstruction in the 17th century. The church’s facade, completed in 1680 by Giuseppe Sardi, is one of the most distinctive and fascinating elements of the building. Commissioned by Antonio Barbaro, the facade does not feature sacred images, but rather a celebration of the Barbaro family itself. The statues of the four Barbaro brothers, along with reliefs depicting the cities where they had served the Republic of Venice (Zara, Candia, Padua, Rome, Corfu, and Split), dominate the scene. At the center of the facade is a statue of Antonio Barbaro, surmounted by the Lion of St. Mark, symbol of the city of Venice. This use of the facade as a tool for family self-celebration is quite unique in the context of Venetian churches and offers an interesting reflection on the role of patrician families in the society of the Serenissima. Upon entering the church, attention is immediately captured by the richness of the Baroque furnishings and the numerous works of art that adorn the interior. The main altar is a masterpiece by Baldassarre Longhena, completed in 1674, featuring an image of the Virgin Mary in the center, surrounded by angels and saints. The interior is divided into three naves with six side chapels, each housing works of great artistic value. Among the most notable works inside the church are the paintings by Giambattista Tiepolo, one of the most famous Venetian painters of the 18th century. The church also houses works by artists such as Tintoretto, Paolo Veronese, and Alessandro Vittoria. One of the most interesting anecdotes related to the church concerns Tiepolo: it is said that the painter, while working on one of his canvases, asked to be paid in wine, a testament to the close connection between art and daily life in Venice. The church’s organ, built in 1750 by Pietro Nachini, is another valuable element. This instrument is still used today for concerts and religious functions, keeping the Venetian musical tradition alive. The church is also linked to several significant historical events. During the War of the League of Cambrai, for example, it was damaged and later restored, symbolizing the city’s resilience in the face of adversity. Furthermore, during World War II, the church suffered further damage but was promptly restored in the post-war period, once again demonstrating the importance of preserving Venice’s historical and artistic heritage.