Squero di San Trovaso

The Squero di San Trovaso is one of the oldest and most fascinating shipyards in Venice, located in the Dorsoduro district, near the Church of San Trovaso and the Accademia Bridge. Founded in the 17th century, it is one of the few traditional structures still in operation where the iconic Venetian gondolas are built and repaired. This squero is famous not only for its long history, but also for its picturesque location along the Rio di San Trovaso, which adds a romantic and authentic touch to the Venetian atmosphere. The term “squero” probably derives from “squara,” an ancient Venetian word indicating a tool used by shipwrights to build boats. The buildings of the squero, with their wooden structures and sloping roofs, resemble the mountain houses of Cadore, where many of the carpenters who worked in Venice came from. This Alpine influence is also reflected in the use of wood, a fundamental material for the construction of gondolas. Venetian gondolas, with their unique shape and timeless elegance, are built using traditional methods dating back centuries. Each gondola is made with eight different types of wood, including mahogany, cherry, fir, walnut, oak, elm, larch, and lime. The construction of a gondola takes about a year of work, involving not only shipwrights but also goldsmiths and blacksmiths who contribute to the decorations and final details. One of the most fascinating aspects of the Squero di San Trovaso is the opportunity to observe up close the process of building and repairing gondolas. Although the shipyard is not open to the public, it is possible to admire the work of the artisans from a certain distance, especially from the opposite side of the canal. This allows visitors to get an idea of the meticulous craftsmanship behind each gondola. Over the centuries, the Squero di San Trovaso has seen a decrease in the number of active squeri in Venice. While in the past there were numerous shipyards scattered throughout the city, today only five remain, and the Squero di San Trovaso is one of the few to keep this tradition alive. Its cultural and historical importance is invaluable, as it represents a direct connection to Venice’s maritime and artisanal past. The gondola itself is a symbol of Venice, and its design has been perfected over the centuries. Since the 16th century, all gondolas must be painted black, a sumptuary law imposed to curb the excessive decoration that characterized these boats. Today, gondolas are recognizable for their simplicity and slightly asymmetric shape, which facilitates navigation in the city’s narrow canals. For those visiting Venice, the Squero di San Trovaso offers a unique opportunity to explore a lesser-known but equally fascinating aspect of the city. It is a place where history and tradition meet, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Venetian craftsmanship and appreciate the work and dedication that go into creating gondolas. Each visit to the squero is a journey through time, a way to see Venice through the eyes of its artisans and to better understand the soul of this unique city in the world.