One of the most important celebrations in Venice is the Feast of the Redeemer (la Festa del Redentore), a traditional Venetian festival commemorating the end of the 1575–1577 plague epidemic, which took the lives of over a third of the city’s population. The event takes place on the island of Giudecca, at the renowned Church of the Redeemer.
In 1576, Doge Alvise Mocenigo commissioned the architect Andrea Palladio to build the church as a offering for deliverance from the plague. The following year, as the epidemic began to decrease, it was decided that an annual procession would be held as an act of gratitude.
Since 1577, the Votive Bridge has been an integral part of the celebration. Still today, a temporary floating bridge is built across the Giudecca Canal, connecting the Zattere to the Church of the Redeemer, allowing thousands of people to walk across the city’s widest canal.
The Feast of the Redeemer continues to be celebrated every year on the third Sunday of July. Venetians gather in their boats in front of St. Mark’s Basin, joined by friends and family, enjoying music, food, and laughter while waiting for the spectacular fireworks display, which lasts about 30 minutes.
It is a magical night filled with joy, colors, and emotions. Venice Tour by Boat can organize an unforgettable tour on this special day, letting you experience the true Venetian party atmosphere aboard a traditional boat, surrounded by celebrations and festive cheer! Contact us to discover more.
Photo: Aisano – Wikimedia Commons – Licenza CC BY-SA 4.0
