Chiesa di San Nicolò dei Mendicoli

What makes it special

Ancient church

It's among the oldest churches in Venice, tracing its origins back to the 7th century, although the present structure was erected in the 12th century with subsequent reconstructions.

Origin of the name

Dedicated to San Nicolò, the patron saint of sailors and fishermen, the term 'Mendicoli' (beggars) arose from the impoverished population residing in the vicinity, predominantly sailors and fishermen.

The Nicolotti

Later in the Middle Ages, the locals adopted the church's name, becoming known as the Nicolotti. You might already be familiar with the legendary rivalry between them and the Castellani, which led to epic clashes on the so-called 'bridges of fists'.

A contrast to the modest exterior

Belying its modest facade, the interior bursts with richness. Clerestory paintings, many from the Veronese school, cover the walls, while abundant gold leaf decorates both picture frames and the arches of stone columns. Imagine how expensive such lavish decoration would have been for a community largely made up of individuals of modest means.

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Your experience here

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Featured in a cult movie

San Nicolò is the very church Donald Sutherland restores in the cult horror film Don’t Look Now (1973) — no wonder it looks familiar.

Beyond its psychological depth, the movie offers a good glimpse of Venice in the 70s, albeit in in dreary, foggy winter weather.

Just don’t look now while wandering the alleys — you might catch a flash of that red waterproof cape lurking nearby...

(screenshot from the movie showing the interior of the church)

From serenity to chaos

The fierce rivalry between the local Nicolotti and Castellani exploded at Ponte dei Pugni, where epic fistfights once shook the bridge — and you can still stand in the stone footprints where it all kicked off.

Explore Ponte dei Pugni

Another rare portico in Venice

Porticos were once common on Venetian churches, though most have vanished over time.

At San Nicolò, it offered shelter to poor religious women, while the one at San Giacomo di Rialto served bankers and money changers.

Explore San Giacomo di Rialto