Chiesa di San Sebastiano

What makes it special

A sanctuary from the plague

The church is dedicated to Saint Sebastian, long venerated in the Middle Ages as a protector against the plague. Throughout the church, you'll find multiple depictions of the saint — typically shown as a youthful figure bound to a tree or post and pierced by arrows.

Veronese’s last refuge

According to legend, Paolo Veronese fled to this church in 1555 after facing murder charges in Verona, accused of killing a romantic rival. Here, he found both sanctuary and renewed purpose.

The devotion of an artist

Over the next three decades, Veronese transformed the church’s interior with sweeping frescoes and grand biblical scenes. When he died in 1588, his final wish was honored: to be buried beneath his masterpieces. His memorial bust stands to the right of the organ.

A remarkable ceiling

The ceiling is an outstanding example of a Venetian soffitto — a segmented painted ceiling influential in shaping the city’s artistic heritage. Beyond the three central paintings on canvas, which tell the story of the Old Testament heroine Esther, the space is further enriched by eight flanking wooden panels depicting balustrades and four monochrome roundels featuring virtues.

Open Gallery for more insights

Your experience here

Open Gallery to get the feel

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After your visit

Cross the bridge in front of the church and lose yourself in the incredibly picturesque surroundings.

Quiet little campi and winding canals weave an ever-changing pattern — perfect for a peaceful stroll and spontaneous photo moments.

Venice’s votive churches

You can find four other votive churches in Venice, all built in gratitude for surviving the plague — but only one holds the relics of the city’s legendary protector against it.

At Chiesa di San Rocco, Saint Roch himself lies enshrined above the high altar, surrounded by Tintoretto’s powerful scenes from the saint’s life and miracles.

Explore Chiesa di San Rocco