Castello

Castello is situated in the east part of Venice. It is the largest district in land and the second largest in population. It does not however border with the Grand Canal. The Castello district is made up of the area located to the right of the Bridge of Sighs, from the Riva dei Sette Martiri at the bottom until the Fondamente Novo at the top.

The district received its name from the castle San Pietro di Castello that was built in order to defend the area. Originally the district was made up of two islands, the Gemine and the Olivolo which were later on connected together.

Most tourists visit the area that is linked with San Marco along the Riva dei Sette ,  the Biennale as well as the Arsenale and Giardini areas. Walking passed the Dodge’s Palace one will reach Castello after a 15 minute walk. Castello is filled with houses, fish markets, small squares and churches decorated with the work of Tintoretto, Bellini and Veroneze. There are also functional sites such as the hospital. The east side of venice soulf be considered the working class area where the locals live and work. Some tourists explore this area however it is rarer as the bridges and canals are more humble than those in more popular districts. It is generally much quieter and the location is picturesque.