Carnival Venice 2025 Casanova Walking Route
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Theme Venice Carnival 2024 |
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Enticingly romantic, that is what Carnival in Venice has been for ages. Visiting a Carnival Ball will be the highlight, but there are many other great things to do.
A self-guided walk through Casanova's Venice (part 1)
At the time of Casanova's birth, Venice thrived as Europe’s pleasure capital. Despite being governed by political and religious conservatives, the city tolerated social vices and encouraged tourism. Venice was an essential destination on the Grand Tour for young aristocrats, particularly from Britain. The city’s famed Carnival, vibrant gambling houses, and captivating courtesans created an atmosphere of indulgence, which profoundly shaped Casanova's early years.
Morning: Casanova's Roots Start in the San Samuele district, where Casanova was born and spent much of his childhood. Take Vaporetto no. 2 to Campo San Samuele, home to Palazzo Grassi and the Church of San Samuele, where his parents were married and where he was baptized. Casanova gave two memorable sermons here—his first a charming success, his second a wine-fueled failure. From the square, gaze across the Grand Canal at Ca’ Rezzonico, a museum that showcases the art and culture of 18th-century Venice, offering a vivid glimpse into the world Casanova knew. Then, visit Palazzo Malipiero, where Senator Alvise Gasparo Malipiero mentored and protected the young Casanova. Nearby, on Calle Malipiero 3082, is the house where Casanova lived between the ages of three and eight under the care of his grandmother after his grandfather’s death. According to Casanova, his grandfather died of a broken heart after his daughter, Casanova’s mother, chose to become an actress. This house holds special significance in understanding the family dynamics that shaped his early life. Tales of First Loves Continue to Corte Duca Sforza 3063-65, the residence of Teresa Imer, a singer and actress with whom Casanova had a passionate affair, leading to his expulsion from Palazzo Malipiero. Directly across the courtyard was the home of Caterina Manzoni, the 31-year-old wife of a lawyer, who befriended a 15-year-old Casanova during his priesthood training. Their bond endured throughout his life. On Salizzada San Samuele, visit the house where on the fourth floor Casanova lost his virginity to the Savorgnan sisters, a moment he immortalized in his memoirs. At Calle delle Muneghe 2993, you’ll find the home where Casanova’s grandmother lived after his grandfather's death. Some say Casanova was born here, while others suggest Calle Malipiero or a house near Sotoportego delle Muneghe. A Taste of Venice Make your way to Caffè Florian in St. Mark's Square, one of Europe’s oldest coffee houses, established in 1720. Known for serving women when most cafés did not, this was one of Casanova’s favorite haunts. During Carnival, expect a wait, but the ambiance is worth it. Cross St. Mark’s Square to visit the Basilica of San Marco, where Casanova, at age 14, was inducted into the priesthood in 1740. Then head to the Doge’s Palace, and explore the infamous Piombi prison, where Casanova was imprisoned before his daring rooftop escape in 1756. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid missing out on this must-see experience. Midday: The Journey Continues After lunch, you can extend your walk to the Dorsoduro and San Polo districts to discover more Casanova-related sites (see part 2). Alternatively, conclude your day with the rich stories and sights of Casanova's Venice lingering in your memory. This walking route is free and can be followed at any time. |
A walk through Casanova's Venice (part 2)
This follow-up walk takes you deeper into his life in Venice. Perfect for another afternoon or day, it reveals more of his escapades, pranks, and connections across the city.
Campo Sant'Anzolo: Pranks and Pastimes From the Doge's Palace walk to Campo Sant’Anzolo, where young Casanova and his friends became infamous for their mischief. After concerts, they’d get drunk and roam the streets, ringing doorbells, cutting bell ropes, and even overturning a historic marble recruitment table that had stood for over 250 years. Although the table is no longer there, you can imagine their escapades in this lively campo. Theatre Ambitions: Teatro Sant'Angelo From the campo, head to the NH Collection Venezia Palazzo Barocci, build on the remnants of the Teatro Sant’Angelo, where Casanova worked as a theater manager in 1780. While his innovative approach to double bills and promotions was ahead of its time, the job didn’t pay well, and his tenure was short-lived. Pause here to admire the Grand Canal and imagine the theater’s bustling atmosphere in Casanova’s day. Gondola Encounters: Servizio Gondole San Toma Take the Calle Traghetto Vecchio to the Servizio Gondole San Toma traghetto stop. In 1746, Casanova, masked and enigmatic, met “Countess A.S.” here—a young noblewoman abandoned by her fiancé. He comforted her, helped her find lodging, and even dissuaded her from suicide. Their brief, passionate affair encapsulates Casanova’s blend of charm and gallantry. Personal Vengeance: Campo San Polo Cross the Grand Canal to Campo San Polo, where bullfights and festivals once brought the campo to life. Follow Calle Bernardo, where Casanova had a dramatic confrontation with his enemy, Razzetta. Pause at Ponte Bernardo and enjoy the peaceful view, imagining the intensity of this moment in Casanova’s life. Red-Light Stories: Ponte delle Tette Head to the Ponte delle Tette, the “Bridge of Tits,” located in Venice’s former red-light district. This area was frequented by Casanova during his youth. The bridge earned its name from the prostitutes who advertised their services by baring their breasts—a vivid reminder of Venice’s more licentious past. Ending at the Rialto Market Conclude your walk at the Rialto Market, specifically the Erberia, where Casanova would stroll after a night of gambling. He described the vibrant scene of boats arriving with fresh vegetables and flowers—a perfect place to calm one’s nerves. Finally, relax at Cantina Do Spade, a tucked-away wine bar where Casanova once dined with his romantic conquests. Enjoy traditional cicchetti and a glass of wine, reflecting on the rich history of Casanova’s Venice. This walking route is free and can be followed at any time. |