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 St. Mark's Basilica and Basilica dei Frari are not part of the circuit, each church on this route holds its own unique charm and artistic treasures.

Unlike many other smaller churches scattered around Venice, those in the Chorus circuit are well maintained, feature informative displays about the artworks inside, and follow consistent opening hours - ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit.

As of July 2025, entrance to all churches is free, though a few select churches may charge a small symbolic fee for access to certain extras.

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


Often called a 'Renaissance jewelry box' for its exquisite polychrome marble panels, supposedly crafted from leftover marbles from St. Mark's Basilica.

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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Among the many treasures and curiosities of this Gothic-Renaissance church, none linger longer in the memory than its partially flooded crypt, where the water forms a perfect mirror, reflecting ancient columns and tombs in a haunting subterranean pool.

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

Santa Maria del Giglio : Today, the facade remains one of the finest examples of Venetian Baroque architecture
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With a name that raises eyebrows, this church invites you to admire two contrasting facades and a remarkable marble-framed polyptych inside.

Santa Maria Formosa : The luminous interior features a main altar flanked by large archways that open fluidly into the lateral chapels
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Step inside to experience an unusually slender nave, richly adorned with 24 large friezes that vividly bring Carmelite stories to life.

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

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

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

San Sebastiano : The bright interior is adorned with works by Veronese
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This graceful church, with its one-of-a-kind facade, preserves two of Tintoretto's greatest works and marks his final resting place.

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
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