VENICE in Leo’s footsteps

Across the Grand Canal towards the church tower of Santa Maria Gloriosa – the first church where Leo will take Mariella to see paintings by Titian.

Titian’s monument in Santa Maria Gloriosa where he was buried. He died in the great Venetian plague epidemic of 1576 and was the only plague victim to be allowed a church burial. This massive marble monument wasn’t there in Leo’s day. It was installed in 1852.
The Assumption” by Titian hangs above the altar of Santa Maria Gloriosa. It’s considered one of his finest works. The church also boasts his “Madonna Ca’ Pesaro” as well as works by Donatello and Bellini.
View from the bridge at Academia (not there in Leo’s time) to Santa Maria Salute on the opposite side of the Grand Canal to Piazza San Marco.
One of the many smaller canals where Leo and Mariella could explore Venice by gondola.
Gliding down to Rialto by gondola. In Leo’s day, this was the only bridge across the Grand Canal.
The Basilica of San Marco and the Campanile. The bell-tower was first built in the 10th century but re-built many times – mostly due to lightning strikes. By the time of Leo and Mariella’s visit, a lightning rod had finally been installed and the tower was a popular place from which to view the city.
The Doge’s palace where Casanova was imprisoned. And atop the two columns, the lions of Saint Mark between which one enters the city from the water.
San Giorgio Maggiore – the view from Leo and Mariella’s hotel balcony which they enjoyed at sunset.