Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo

Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo

Hidden in San Marco, this site features a stunning external spiral staircase with Gothic, Renaissance, and Byzantine elements, offering panoramic rooftop views.
Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo is tucked away behind the streets of San Marco and is best known for its external spiral staircase, or bovolo, which winds upward in a sequence of arches. Built in the late 15th century, the palace brings together Gothic, Renaissance and Byzantine elements in a way characteristic of Venice. From the upper levels there are rewarding views across the rooftops. The building has an almost theatrical sense of revelation.