Venice Castello
Venice Castello is one of the six sestieri(districts) of Venice. It is the largest of the sestiere, both in population and size. Its area spans from the north-east of the city, from San Pietro di Castello to the Palazzo Ducale. From here to the hospital in Campo SS Giovanni e Paolo.
History of Venice Castello
Venice Castello boasts of its rich history which dates back to the founding of the city. In the 8th century this area was mentioned as Olivolo.Like Rivo Alto, it is one of the first commercial settlements. Later it was given the name of Castello, perhaps because of the size of the castle walls of the arsenale. The Arsenal was an enormous shipyard located in Castello, the heart of the commercial and war naval industry of Venice. Until the outbreak of World War II, the Arsenale was the largest shipyard of the world. It was also the industrial centre of Venice. The evolution of the area from a shipbuilding centre to a peaceful residential district makes it a fascinating chapter in the story of Venice.
The Attractions of Venice Castello
When you explore Venice in Italy, especially with a Venice city pass, Castello should be a top destination. This district is less crowded compared to more tourist-centric areas. The most popular and commercial area of Castello is the Riva degli Schiavoni which extends on San Marco's pond and overlooks the Grand Canal. One of the majestic attractions of Venice is the Arsenale in the Castello sestiere. Today it is the home of the Italian Navy in addition to being the palace of the Historical Naval Museum. This museum is the most important of its kind in Italy. In Castello sestiere you will find the Biennale di Venezia. Its expositive locations and gardens are worth seeing. The Island of San Pietro also deserves a visit as here is located the Cathedral of San Pietro. The sestiere has many worth visiting Venice churches like the Church of Santa Maria Famosa and the Church of San Zaccaria. Historical palaces like Palazzo Querini Stampalia,Palazzo Vitturi, Venier's house and Palazzo Donă are also located here. In order to explore all of these attractions of Venice you can utilize our Venice itineraries.
What to eat when visiting Castello?
Dining in Castello gives an opportunity to visitors to indulge in authentic Venetian cuisine. Venice restaurants in Castello serve traditional dishes like sarde in saor, risotto al nero di seppia and the cicchetti( small snacks) that are a perfect choice for food lovers who are looking for a variety of flavors. It's recommended to explore Venice's culinary scene right in the heart of Castello. Here you can have a memorable dining experience.
What will you eat in Castello?
In Castello, your taste buds can have a treat with a delightful array of Venetian cuisine. Seafood takes centre stage here.Eating squid, cuttlefish and scallops prepared in Venetian styles should be given a try.Moreover, risotto al nero di seppia, a creamy black squid ink risotto is a must try for a unique culinary experience. Thus Castello offers a gastronomic adventure that complements its rich history. Therefore explore the local food and drink as a part of your Castello itinerary.