Gothic Venice

Venetian Gothic or “florid” is a highly imaginative, bright and sinuous architectural style that combines the Gothic style, typical of central Europe between the 12th – 16th centuries, with Byzantine and Moorish artistic influences. The style originated in 14th-century Venice, where Byzantine styles from Constantinople, Moorish influences from Al-Andalus and Gothic forms from the continent converge. 

The influence of Islamic architecture is particularly reflected in the use of colours and patterns on exterior walls and sometimes stone gratings on windows and perhaps battlements, which are purely decorative on roofs. 

In general, buildings in Venetian Gothic must abide by the structural limits imposed by the city, and they cannot be excessively heavy, either in form or materials. The lightness of this style also derives from this structural limitation. Often the forms of these buildings and palaces do not present much novelty, but what fascinates the observer are their facades. 

Looking around while strolling through the “calli” (Venetian alleys), one can see countless striking views and richly decorated facades. We have selected the most representative buildings of this style in order to be able to grasp its characteristics.