Venetian Magic Tour

This tour is led by Renaissance scholar, Dr. Richard Stemp. He says: “Venice was one of the great world powers, with a system of government that remained almost unchanged for 1100 years. This stability led to a wealth of art and architecture, much of which is still in situ, and visiting a few sites we can begin to understand the history and culture of this remarkable place, travelling short distances on foot and by boat, the practical solutions to living in one of the world's most magical cities. Having introduced the history of the Venetian Republic as expressed the appearance and meaning of the buildings around St Mark's Square, we will focus on the Renaissance, and see how the Venice became leaders in the arts of painting and architecture.”

Sample Itinerary 1

Day 1: Arrive evening

Day 2: The History of Venice, as expressed through the buildings of the Piazza San Marco - exteriors only/Two Iconic Buildings: Il Redentore and Santa Maria della Salute

Day 3: Some gems of the early Renaissance - paintings in their original buildings by Bellini, Carpaccio and Cima Church and Society - Bellini, Titian, and Tintoretto in Santa Maria die Frari and the Scuola Grande di San Rocco

Sample Itinerary 2

Day 1: Arrive/The History of Venice

Day 2: Some gems/Church and Society

Day 3: Two Iconic Buildings/Return

There is also an opportunity to have a unique and special private visit to St. Mark’s Basilica and be surrounded by the beauty, architecture and mosaics. 

Transport and accommodation are not included, but we can make recommendations.