Sestiere Cannaregio
Ghetto Ebraico
Jewish Quarter
Historic Jewish neighborhood that originated the term 'ghetto'.
Guglie (3-min walk)
www.ghettovenezia.com
+39 041 524 6083
Highlights
Remarkable history
From the 16th century onwards, Jews were mandated to live here. It is the oldest enforced settlement, with Jews allowed to leave only between dawn and sunset. During the night, the two access bridges were shut and guarded.
Unusually tall houses
At its peak, more than 5000 people were crammed inside this small perimeter, prompting vertical construction and yielding some of the tallest apartment buildings of the era.
Origin of the word
The word 'ghetto' originated here, likely linked to 'giotto' or 'geto,' meaning 'foundry,' due to the neighborhood's proximity to a former cannon-producing foundry.
Five Synagogues
The Italian, Spanish, Levantine, Canton and, the oldest: the Great German Synagogue. They can only be entered on guided tours or through self-guided access.
Why visit
As you stroll and explore kosher shops, it's incredible to think that this was once a restricted, overcrowded neighborhood.
Visit the synagogues
Self-guided tour
With the help of an app, enjoy a self-guided visit of the ghetto and access two synagogues.
Guided tour
This captivating two-hour walking tour of the ghetto can be extended with an optional hour to visit two synagogues.
Nearby
These top places are steps away from Ghetto Ebraico:
