The bell tower is among the tallest in Venice, measuring over 50 meters. It is also one of the oldest, with its foundations dating back to the 12th century. Two characteristic Romanesque-style double-arched windows near the base bear witness to the era of its construction. Three sides of the bell tower have been incorporated into Palazzo Labia.
The view from the bell tower of the Sanctuary of Santa Lucia offers a unique perspective compared to the typical city photographs—which often look from the sea toward the mainland, much like the famous De’ Barbari map. From the belfry, one can admire a breathtaking 360-degree panorama. Situated in Cannaregio, the tower provides a central vantage point overlooking both sea and mainland; the horizon stretches from the Alps near Trieste to the Apennines, taking in the Dolomites, while offering an extraordinary view of the city and lagoon islands—including Giudecca, Murano, San Michele, San Giacomo in Paludo, Burano, Torcello, the Lido, and Pellestrina.
From the tower, the eye is first drawn to the Grand Canal and the remarkable aerial view of the urban fabric, surrounded by the city’s many bell towers—ranging from Sant’Alvise and Madonna dell’Orto to San Pietro di Castello, San Marco, the Frari, and Santi Giovanni e Paolo, all the way to the distant skyscrapers of Jesolo. Distinct landmarks also stand out, from the nearby façade of the Fontego dei Turchi to the industrial zone of Marghera and the airport.
Restoration work has opened the bell tower to the public through an innovative project of exceptional structural quality, ensuring safety while offering an extraordinary experience for visitors viewing this ancient monument. The restored bells are among the city’s oldest—and some of the few that escaped being melted down for bombs and cannons during the war; their peal rings out as a message of peace.
REACHING THE CAMPANILE
Just a short walk from the train station and Piazzale Roma (bus terminal), the nearest *vaporetto* stop for reaching the area near the Campanile is “Guglie” (lines 51 and 52), though the “Ferrovia” piers are also close by.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION