Basilica S.Maria Gloriosa dei Frari image

Basilica S.Maria Gloriosa dei Frari

Tourist attraction Catholic church Church

One of the Top rated Catholic churches in Venice


Address

San Polo, 3072, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy

Website

www.basilicadeifrari.it

Contact

+39 041 272 8618

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (10.6K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Friday: 9 am to 7 pm
  • Saturday: 9 am to 5:30 pm
  • Sunday: 1 to 5:30 pm
  • Monday: 9 am to 7 pm
  • Tuesday: 9 am to 7 pm
  • Wednesday: 9 am to 7 pm
  • Thursday: (Liberation Day), 9 am to 7 pm, Hours might differ

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: church (27) Venice (19) Frari (14) beautiful (10) visit (9) history (8) amazing (8) paintings (8) time (7) century (6)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Nancy Aiello T. 2 years ago on Google
    Built in the middle of the 13th century, this church was extended and grew until the 16th century. The church is filled with magnificent treasures and laden with history. Most importantly, the Titian painting of the Ascension above the altar; it signifies the beginning of modern art as Titian broke all the rules of his day, and also caused huge religious debate due to the depiction of Mary ascending to Heaven directly. In 1518 this was completely outrageous.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Leo J. 2 months ago on Google • 199 reviews New
    Beautiful church with some of the most amazing paintings inside. Would recommend going in with Rick Steve’s episode to truly appreciate the art here. A bit under appreciated so much more tranquil.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hannah I. 2 years ago on Google
    This was the first place I visited with my school. The story of apostle Francis to which this church was dedicated was a beautiful story to learn of, the great sculptures that were there, the story and where it all centered. I loved the art and the story that each art tells.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 DK1981 2 years ago on Google
    When you see the exterior of this church you won't be very impressed due to its simplicity. Once inside the space is absolutely amazing. It is filled with huge marble tombs and artwork. The carved wood choir stall is very beautiful. This place is usually very quiet and has few tourists. It is a wonderful place spend time far from the hustle of the touristy parts of Venice. There are many little restaurants in the area to sit and watch the locals going about their day. Unfortunately the tomb of the sculptor Canova was under renovation when I visited the church in Oct 2021. It is very unusual its pyramid shape. It was designed by Canova himself and built by his students after his death.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Demetra P. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing paintings and sculptures. The whole church is covered with masterpieces. Titians paintings and Donatello's sculptures. Definitely worth the entrance fee. Take your time to observe every little detail.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Patricia E. 7 months ago on Google • 169 reviews
    We have visited Venice twice before this trip and must have passed this Basilica numerous times, but just noticed it today and decided to go inside. I'm so glad we did. This place is magnificent, with works by Bellini (my favourite piece), Titian, Donatello and other superb artists. We paid an extra euro for the audio guide, which was truly excellent but whilst there are around 30 works of interest, the guide ends half way through (at item 15, i think), so be aware of this. It's a little disappointing - but that is really the only disappointing aspect of this beautiful place and its contents. We were really moved by the beautiful works of art. Highly recommended!

  • 5/5 Ruqaya A. 5 months ago on Google • 78 reviews
    There is a lot to see inside the church. It’s so beautiful! So many details.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Feng M. 4 months ago on Google • 134 reviews
    The Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, commonly abbreviated to the Frari, is a church located in the Campo dei Frari at the heart of the San Polo district of Venice, Italy. It is the largest church in the city and it has the status of a minor basilica. The church is dedicated to the Assumption of Mary.

  • 5/5 Paul L. 1 year ago on Google
    The beauty of Venice is simply wandering and seeing what grabs your eye. I had never heard of this basilica, but was curious. So glad I went in and bought tickets. Titian's 'Annunciation' dominates the main alter...beautifully. his tomb is also inside. What a surprise, and a treasure.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Teresa C. 6 months ago on Google • 39 reviews
    This church is well worth the 5 euro entry. Beautiful small chapels and altars, incredible artwork and construction. One of the churches with less restoration going on right now. Full enjoyed my visit here.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tina D. 6 months ago on Google • 80 reviews
    The Frari is the largest church in Venice, and although it is somewhat plain on the outside, the interior is like a museum with many paintings by famous artists, such as Donatello and Titian, who is also interred there. It has a vaulted Gothic ceiling which adds to the immense size of the church interior.

  • 5/5 Rody 6 months ago on Google
    The Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, commonly known as the Frari, is a magnificent and historically significant church located in the heart of Venice, Italy. This architectural gem is not only a testament to Venetian artistry but also holds a profound cultural and religious importance that captivates visitors from around the world. Construction of the Frari began in the 14th century and continued over several centuries, resulting in a stunning blend of architectural styles. The façade, initially left incomplete, was later adorned with beautiful Renaissance elements, designed by the renowned architect and sculptor Jacopo Sansovino in the 16th century. The church's exterior, with its intricate details and harmonious proportions, is a remarkable example of Venetian Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Upon entering the Frari, visitors are welcomed into a vast and awe-inspiring space filled with an air of spirituality. The church's interior is a treasure trove of exquisite artworks, including masterpieces by some of the most renowned artists of the Venetian Renaissance. One of the most celebrated works housed within the Frari is Titian's "Assumption of the Virgin," a colossal and emotionally charged painting that adorns the high altar. Titian's masterpiece is a prime example of the Venetian School of painting and is considered one of the most important religious artworks in Venice. Aside from Titian's masterpiece, the Frari also boasts other notable works, such as Giovanni Bellini's "Madonna and Child with Saints," sculptures by Antonio Canova, and a beautiful organ case designed by Marco Cozzi. The church's chapels are adorned with richly decorated altars and tombs, each with its own unique history and artistic significance. The Frari is also the final resting place of many notable Venetians, including the famous composer Claudio Monteverdi and the sculptor Antonio Canova. The tombs and funerary monuments throughout the church offer a glimpse into the rich history of Venice and the lives of its distinguished residents. Visiting the Basilica dei Frari is not only a journey through art and history but also a chance to experience the profound spirituality and cultural heritage of Venice. The church's serene and contemplative atmosphere provides a welcome respite from the bustling streets of the city, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its centuries-old history. In conclusion, the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari is a testament to the artistic and cultural richness of Venice. Its architectural splendor, world-class art collection, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the enchanting city of Venice. It is a place where the sacred and the artistic converge to create a truly transcendent experience.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nathan D. 1 year ago on Google
    It's hard to even put this church into words. The outside doesn't even remotely do it justice until you step inside and see the detailed and forgotten age of craftsmanship. The altars of majestic beauty, the wooden choir structure, the elaborate paintings. It only cost 5£ to enter but I would have easily paid double. There are audio guides available in certain languages. I won't spoil everything in photos but here is some teasers.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 David C. 1 year ago on Google
    A critically important cultural destination with Titian’s masterpieces on display in situ sand one of the largest collections of religious relics anywhere (reputedly including Christ’s blood). Audio tours are available. Also a Donatello sculpture of John the Baptist is here in a chapel to the right of the main alter. Seeing a Donatello sculpture outside of Florence is a rare treat. Dress appropriately and behave respectfully and enjoy this magnificent space in the morning sunshine. Be open to the centuries of devotion by Venetians to make this church an important place to visit on your trip.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gerben V. 2 years ago on Google
    This is for me truly one of the most amazing cathedrals in Venice. From the outside it seems quite ordinary but inside it is just wonderful. The woorden choir is very nice, as well as the altar piece painted by Titiaan. There is also a wonderful and highly decorated reliqs shrine with very fine marble works.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mel R. 1 year ago on Google
    A must see on your visit to Venice. Spectacular art from the 11th to 17th centuries, plus a 16th century tower clock mechanism. The wood carved choir is one of the most amazing I've ever seen, every single chair covered with unique intricate designs. You can also join the friars for traditional morning prayer at 8am and mass at 8:30am, to have the religious experience as well as the artistic one.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Poet Nitin C. 1 year ago on Google
    Very ancient and historic church. A must visit for people who are visiting Venice. Venice is a place you must visit atleast once in your life ♥️
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ethan O. 1 year ago on Google
    Wow! What a find this was. The devil is in the detail here. Take a closer look. There are some amazing paintings Some amassing carving and some amazing wood work. It’s well worth spending the money to pope in and see this as the craftsmanship inside is simply amazing. It may not have all the guided ceilings of other places but there is an elegance and beauty to the way this details work is on display.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 swisstype 9 months ago on Google
    I'm a sucker for an old church, and this is right up my alley. Lots of intricate work, whether it's stone, wood, fresco, you name it. Some date to the 15th century. Take your time, get an audio guide and learn about things and people you've never heard of. It was a beautiful time and place, learn about the people who were in it.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Douglas G. 2 months ago on Google • 53 reviews New
    One of the most beautiful and extraordinary basilicas I have ever visited. Place so full of history and art. The size of the interior is colossal and on every piece of wall there is a piece of Christian art to be appreciated. I really loved everything and felt so at peace in there, I definitely want to go back.

  • 4/5 E. T. 1 year ago on Google
    If you're going to visit a single church in Venice choose this one. Lots of interesting paintings from famous artists.

  • 4/5 Love 1 year ago on Google
    It’s very pretty and worth it if you have a bit of free time but it’s not anything special as far as Italian churches go. There are definitely some gorgeous parts of it. It took me about 25 minutes to look at everything and I was taking my time so it’s easy to squeeze into your schedule! FYI it’s closed to the public sometimes for funerals and celebrations. ◡̈

  • 5/5 Khandsuren L. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing place with full of crowd. Cathedral top decorations were one of most creative I’ve seen so far compared to Rome & Milan.

  • 5/5 Sergey I. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the most beautiful and interesting church in Venice. Lots of art and history. Must be place!

  • 4/5 Sangeeth S N. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the amazing church in the Venice. Recommended who loves to travel in the history

  • 5/5 Vinay K. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the best church in venice. Stunning. Amazing. Great architecture. Must visit. Photo point.

  • 4/5 Bożydar M. 2 years ago on Google
    Impressive building, worth to see, short visit, you can make stop outside, drink coffee at the canal and observe church outside

  • 5/5 Konstantin V. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful basilica in the center of Venezia with great pieces of art inside from Tizian, Tintoretti and Venorese.

  • 4/5 Val K. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place, just a few minutes of your time will take you here

  • 5/5 Nikki H. 2 years ago on Google
    Stunning inside! 3€ entry and children were free. worth a visit..

  • 5/5 Tina D. 6 months ago on Google • 2 reviews
    The Frari is the largest church in Venice, and although it is somewhat plain on the outside, the interior is like a museum with many paintings by famous artists, such as Donatello and Titian, who is also interred there. It has a vaulted Gothic ceiling which adds to the immense size of the church interior.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍


Call +39 041 272 8618 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✗ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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