Giudecca: A Unique Place in Venetian History
Stretching along the lagoon, Giudecca Island faces St. Mark’s Square. From the 15th century, Venetian nobility made it a retreat, away from the bustle of the city.
Palaces surrounded by splendid gardens, orchards, and vineyards were built to enjoy nature and host illustrious guests.
The island quickly became a hub of intellectual and artistic life: writers, philosophers, and painters found both inspiration and serenity there.
Airelles Palladio, at the Heart of the Venetian Imagination
Airelles Palladio, Venice is reborn at the heart of a hectare of gardens on Giudecca Island, within four exceptional historic buildings.
The Palladio, designed by Andrea Palladio in 1561, once housed the Zitelle Institute, where young noblewomen learned the art of lace-making : a craft so renowned that Louis XIV was crowned in Reims wearing a collar made here.
Villa Frollo has embodied Venetian elegance since 1677. An aristocratic academy and later a romantic boarding house, it has welcomed Casanova, Eleonora Duse, Sartre, and Angelina Jolie. From its Doge Suite, the view of St. Mark’s has inspired generations of artists.
The Conventino, once a refuge for noble widows, now houses Airelles’ private villa: a sanctuary of serenity.
By restoring these gems, Airelles breathes new life into a unique architectural heritage cherished worldwide.
At its heart, the church of Santa Maria della Presentazione reveals its octagonal dome and exquisite frescoes.
Michelangelo’s Hideaway on Giudecca
Perched on Giudecca Island, Michelangelo’s stay remains shrouded in mystery and legend. Fleeing the political turmoil of Florence, the master sculptor is said to have found refuge here, renting a villa and hiding a chest of gold, the contents of which remain unknown to this day.
Although his stay was brief, his artistic spirit left an indelible mark, making Giudecca a haven for creators and dreamers.
At Airelles Venezia, Michelangelo’s story lives on, evoking the magic of this island that has inspired visionaries for centuries.