Chiesa di Sant'Alvise

Quiet church in northern Cannaregio with eight early Tiepolo paintings — founded in 1388 on the initiative of Doge's daughter Antonia Venier.

Sant'Alvise is a church at the far north of the sestiere of Cannaregio, founded in 1388 by Antonia Venier, daughter of Doge Antonio Venier, following a vision of Saint Louis of Toulouse. The plain brick exterior gives little indication of the rich interior: eight tempera paintings by Giambattista Tiepolo from the early 18th century depicting Old Testament scenes are considered early masterworks of the artist. The campo in front of the church is one of Venice's quietest and least touristed squares — a good base for experiencing everyday Venice off the beaten path.