Get insight into the art and history of 18th-century Venice when you visit the museum at Ca’ Rezzonico. Inside this magnificent baroque palace, see salons with frescoed ceilings, visit an antique pharmacy and study paintings by renowned Venetian artists.
Approach the waterfront building by boat along the Grand Canal and admire its stunning façade. Start your tour of Ca’ Rezzonico and its collections by walking up the ceremonial staircase. This leads to the first floor where you will find 11 rooms filled with sculptures, paintings and 18th-century furnishings. Go into the Throne Room for its gilded furniture and the outstanding ceiling fresco. Step inside one of the palace’s main attractions, the ballroom. It occupies two floors and almost the entire rear of the building. Appreciate the furniture, ceiling frescos and statues of warriors.
Make your way to the rooms on the second floor, containing some of the most important pieces in the museum. These include works by such renowned names as Antonio Guardi and Canaletto. Go to the alcove, which has been converted into a reproduction of an 18th-century bedchamber, complete with dressing rooms and boudoir. Examine the frescos in the Punchinello Room. They feature scenes from the life of Pulcinella, a cowardly comedy character popular in comic plays and puppet shows.
When you are up on the third floor, find the Ai Do San Marchi Pharmacy. There are three rooms, including the shop and the laboratory with its fireplace and stove. Note the large mortars on the shelves that would’ve been used for grinding ingredients. The antique pharmacy holds nearly 200 majolica jars, which at one time would have been filled with remedies. Also on this floor is a picture gallery with works from the Venetian school, dating from the 15th century to the beginning of the 20th century.
The museum is situated along the Grand Canal near the Accademia Bridge, and is open every day except Tuesdays. Admission charges apply, with reductions for children, students and people over the age of 65. Disabled people with their helpers can tour Ca’ Rezzonico for free.
