Grand Canal with Santa Maria della Salute Basilica, Venice, Italy Feb 3, 2024

When in Venice, you might pass by the Santa Maria della Salute, seen towards the back of today"s image, a baroque basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary, who was considered to be the protector of the Republic of Venice. Situated between the Grand Canal and the Giudecca Canal, this architectural gem graces the Bacino di San Marco, offering a striking welcome to those entering Piazza San Marco by water. Designed in the fashionable Baroque style by Baldassare Longhena, a student of Vincenzo Scamozzi, construction of the basilica commenced in 1631. The Salute"s dome swiftly became an emblem of Venice"s skyline, immortalised by local and visiting artists. Today, the Salute stands not only as a representation of faith but also as a reminder of Venice"s history and artistic legacy.

© RudyBalasko/Getty Images

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