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9 Picks from the Excellent Chorus Circuit

Chorus Churches

Chorus Venice is a collection of 20 historic churches that preserve over a thousand years of Venetian heritage.

While famous landmarks like Basilica di San Marco and Basilica dei Frari are not part of the circuit, each church on this route holds its own unique charm and artistic treasures.

Unlike the many smaller churches scattered around Venice that aren’t part of this circuit, the Chorus churches are well maintained, offer informative displays about the art, and have clear opening hours — ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Conveniently located near the city's main attractions, these next 9 churches are must-visit spots for history, architecture, and art lovers alike.


1

Santa Maria dei Miracoli

Santa Maria dei Miracoli : The narrow, tall nave has a raised altar so that everyone can see the venerated painting of the Virgin
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Often called a 'Renaissance jewelry box' for its exquisite polychrome marble panels, supposedly crafted from leftover marbles from St. Mark's Basilica.

Explore Santa Maria dei Miracoli

2

San Zaccaria

San Zaccaria : The flooded 10th-century Romanesque crypt
11

Among the many treasures and curiosities of this Gothic-Renaissance church, none linger longer in the memory than its eerie, partially flooded crypt.

Explore San Zaccaria

3

Santa Maria del Giglio

Santa Maria del Giglio : Today, the facade remains one of the finest examples of Venetian Baroque architecture
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Beyond the Baroque splendor of the facade and its unique relief maps of Rome and other cities, step inside the treasury to uncover an unexpected painting from a distant land and style.

Explore Santa Maria del Giglio

4

Santa Maria Formosa

Santa Maria Formosa : The luminous interior features a main altar flanked by large archways that open fluidly into the lateral chapels
8

With a name that raises eyebrows, this church invites you to admire two contrasting facades and a remarkable marble-framed polyptych inside.

Explore Santa Maria Formosa

5

Santa Maria dei Carmini

Santa Maria dei Carmini : The friezes on both sides of the clerestory walls depict a total of 24 scenes related to Carmelite subjects
8

Step inside to experience an unusually slender nave, richly adorned with 24 large friezes that vividly bring Carmelite stories to life.

Explore Santa Maria dei Carmini

6

Chiesa di San Paolo

Chiesa di San Paolo : The Oratory of the Crucifix displays the 14 Stations of the Cross, which were painted by Giandomenico Tiepolo during his early twenties
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Gothic church housing a series of evocative crucifixion scenes painted in an unconventional style.

After a peaceful break in the nearby square, curiosity may lead you inside to experience this unique take on a biblical scene.

Explore Chiesa di San Paolo

7

San Giacomo dall'Orio

San Giacomo dall'Orio : The beautifully painted cupolas above the right altar
9

As you enter this beautiful Romanesque church, glance to the right: a painted miracle scene seems innocent — until you look closer.

Explore San Giacomo dall'Orio

8

San Sebastiano

San Sebastiano : The bright interior is adorned with works by Veronese
8

This was the three-decade 'workplace' of one of Venice’s greatest painters. His dramatic works, combined with the church’s serene atmosphere, create a captivating sense of peaceful harmony.

Explore San Sebastiano

9

Madonna dell'Orto

Madonna dell'Orto : The 'Presentation of the Virgin in the Temple' was initially created as two vertical halves, a fact easily noticeable at the bottom, particularly in the child's dress
12

Gothic church adorned with 10 impressive paintings by Tintoretto, who is also buried within.

This graceful church, containing two of Tintoretto's best works, is a must-see when exploring Cannaregio.

Explore Madonna dell'Orto

Here's a tip!

Get a Chorus Pass

Access all 20 churches on the Chorus circuit with a single, great-value pass.

The pass pays for itself after just four visits, making every additional church essentially free.


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