The facade serves as an elaborate tribute to the Barbaro family's military and naval achievements rather than strictly religious iconography.
Unlike most Venetian churches, the stone reliefs on the facade feature maps of cities where the Barbaro family served, including a map of 17th-century Venice.
The name 'Zobenigo' originates from the Jubanico family, who were the original founders of the first church on this site in the 10th century.
The building houses the only painting by Peter Paul Rubens located in a Venetian church.
Architect Giuseppe Sardi designed the facade to integrate theatrical, sculptural elements that were highly experimental for the period.
Santa Maria Zobenigo, commonly known as Santa Maria del Giglio, is a notable Baroque church situated in Venice, Italy. Its exterior is distinguished by a highly decorative facade featuring large topographical maps of various cities, including Venice, Rome, Corfu, and Candia. Commissioned by the Barbaro family, the current structure was completed in 1681 by architect Giuseppe Sardi. The interior houses significant artworks, including a notable painting by Peter Paul Rubens titled The Madonna and Child with St. John. The church operates under the Chorus Association, which manages the preservation of several historic Venetian ecclesiastical sites. It serves as a repository for 17th-century Venetian religious art and sculpture.
Stand in the center of the Campo looking directly at the facade to capture the full breadth of the topographical carvings.
Purchase a Chorus Pass if you plan to visit multiple churches managed by the association to save on individual entrance fees.
Look closely at the facade to identify the labeled engravings of 17th-century city layouts.
Check the Chorus Venezia website before visiting for occasional closures due to private religious services or maintenance.
Do not mistake the exterior sculptures for typical religious statues; they are largely celebratory monuments to the Barbaro family's secular history.
Closed on Sundays and major religious holidays.
Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered; hats should be removed upon entry.
