Palazzo Labia

Palazzo Labia, located in the Cannaregio district of Venice, is a majestic example of Baroque architecture, known not only for its grandeur but also for the extraordinary frescoes by Giambattista Tiepolo that adorn its interiors. Built between the late 17th and early 18th centuries, the palace represents the pinnacle of the splendor and luxury of the time. The Labia family, originally from Spain, moved to Venice in the 16th century and, through trade and marital alliances, accumulated a considerable fortune. Determined to consolidate their social and political status, the family commissioned the construction of this palace, entrusting the work to architects Andrea Cominelli and Alessandro Tremignon. The result was an imposing building, overlooking three canals, including the Grand Canal, perfectly expressing the grandeur of Venetian nobility at the time. The facade of the palace, with its elaborate decorations and large arched windows, is a typical example of Venetian Baroque style. But it is inside that Palazzo Labia reveals its true treasures. Upon entering the ballroom, one is faced with one of Giambattista Tiepolo’s most extraordinary works: the cycle of frescoes dedicated to the story of Antony and Cleopatra. These frescoes, created between 1746 and 1747, represent one of the greatest masterpieces of Venetian Rococo, with scenes of great theatricality and sophistication depicting the encounter between the two famous lovers. Tiepolo, known for his ability to create dynamic compositions and his masterful use of light and color, transforms the walls and ceiling of the hall into a stage of great visual impact. Among the most famous scenes is “The Meeting of Antony and Cleopatra,” in which Tiepolo portrays Cleopatra as a sensual and powerful figure, surrounded by a retinue of servants and courtiers. The use of chiaroscuro and the perspective arrangement of the figures create an effect of depth and movement that engages the viewer. The palace is not only an example of artistic opulence, but also a symbol of the power and culture of the Labia family. During the 18th century, the palace hosted sumptuous balls and receptions attended by the most important personalities of the time, making Palazzo Labia a hub of Venetian high society. The Labia’s ability to host events of such magnitude was a clear sign of their power and influence. After the fall of the Republic of Venice, the palace underwent a period of decline, like many other noble residences in the city. However, in the 20th century, the palace was purchased by oil magnate Carlos de Beistegui, who undertook a careful restoration to bring the building back to its former glory. Beistegui, known for his eccentric taste and passion for art, used the palace to host lavish events, including the famous Ballo del Secolo in 1951, attended by celebrities and aristocrats from around the world. Currently, Palazzo Labia is the regional headquarters of RAI (Italian Radio and Television) for the Veneto region. Despite its modern function, the palace retains its historical and artistic charm intact, offering visitors the opportunity to admire Tiepolo’s extraordinary frescoes and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a bygone era. An interesting anecdote concerns the Ballo del Secolo organized by Carlos de Beistegui. This event, described as one of the grandest of the 20th century, saw the participation of illustrious figures such as Christian Dior, Orson Welles, Salvador Dalí, and Winston Churchill. The ball, with its sumptuous costumes and spectacular sets, was a tribute to Venice’s glorious past and an attempt to relive the splendor of 18th-century festivities.