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

San Sebastiano : The painting behind the high altar was Veronese's final work in the church; it depicts Madonna in Glory with St. Sebastian and other saints

San Sebastiano : Various representations of Saint Sebastian can be found throughout the church's art

San Sebastiano : The nave ceiling depicts scenes from the Life of Esther

San Sebastiano : The organ loft partially obscures Veronese's wall frescoes from 1558, hinting that it may not have been part of the church's original design

San Sebastiano : In addition to Veronese's works, the church also features 'Saint Nicholas' by Titian, establishing a thematic connection to the nearby San Nicolo dei Mendicoli church

San Sebastiano : The facade overlooks a small canal with a charming bridge beckoning visitors to cross

San Sebastiano : The church's facade was originally located on the right side, before being repositioned to its current orientation facing the canal

San Sebastiano : The statues of the patron saints with the 53m high freestanding belltower in the background

Chiesa di San Sebastiano

Church of Saint Sebastian

Votive plague church adorned with vibrant paintings by Veronese, who is also buried here.

Chorus Churches Without Crowds

Sestiere Dorsoduro

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San Basilio (3-min walk)

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chorusvenezia.org

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Standard admission is €3.50. Free entrance with the Chorus pass or with the official city pass.

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Highlights

Protection against the plague

The church is dedicated to Saint Sebastian, reflecting the medieval belief that he protected against the plague. Throughout the church's art, you'll find various representations of this saint, usually depicted as a young man tied to a tree or post and shot with arrows.

Humble exterior, stunning interior

Inside, you'll be amazed by the floor-to-ceiling dramatic frescoes created by Paolo Veronese over the course of 30+ years.

Why specifically Veronese?

According to legend, Veronese sought refuge at the church in 1555 after fleeing murder charges in Verona, where he allegedly killed a romantic rival. From then onwards, he dedicated his life to decorating the church, up until his death in 1588. He wished to be buried inside the church, beneath his masterpieces. His memorial bust is located to the right of the organ.

Why visit

This was the three-decade 'workplace' of one of Venice's greatest painters. His dramatic works and the overall sense of peaceful harmony inside will captivate you.