Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari

Situated on the Campo dei Frari at the center of the neighborhood-district of San Polo, the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari is an important church in Venice. Affectionately known as the “Frari”, construction began on the church around 1340 by the Franciscans and its immense campanile (the second tallest in the city) was completed in 1396.

The Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari is constructed from brick and one of three Venetian churches built in the Italian Gothic style. It is the only church in the city to still contain its original rood screen, an ornate partition between the chancel and nave.

The interior of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari is in keeping with the minimalistic style of Franciscan churches. However, it does contain a number of artistic treasures that include the triptych “Madonna and Child Enthroned with Four Saints” by Giovanni Bellini in the sacristy and a St. John the Baptist wooden statue by Florentine sculptor Donatello in the right transept. In the left transept, there is another statue of St. John the Baptist by sculptor Jacopo Sansovino.

Other works of note include the Monks’ Choir, which was carved by Marco Cozzi and depicts saints and scenes from Venice, as well as Titian’s “Assunta” that is situated over the high altar. His “Madonna di Ca' Pesaro” is also found within the church and considered one of his most important works, while the Mausoleum of Titian was gifted by Ferdinand I of Austria during his reign as King of Lombardy Veneto. 

The Frari remains a working church, and the same dress expectations apply as elsewhere in Venice's religious buildings: shoulders and knees covered for all visitors. Photography without flash is generally permitted, but flash is not, to protect paintings that are centuries old.

A visit takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour for the main highlights, longer for anyone working through the church's full collection of tombs and altarpieces.

• Tickets: a modest entry fee applies for tourists (free for those attending mass); the Chorus Pass, covering several of Venice's major churches, can be worth it for a longer stay.
• Getting there: nearest vaporetto stop is San Tomà, a short walk away in San Polo -- the Scuola Grande di San Rocco sits right next door.