Parrocchia di Santa Maria Formosa

Church of Santa Maria Formosa

Catholic church with a quirky name, nestled in a charming square lined with cafés and shops.

Campo Santa Maria Formosa Chorus Churches Free Admission

Sestiere Castello

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Rialto or S. Zaccaria (8-min walk)

Waterbus Guide

santamariaformosa.it

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What makes it special

Unusual name for a church

Legend says San Magno of Oderzo built the first church in the 7th century after a vision of the Holy Virgin as a voluptuous woman — hence the name 'Formosa', Italian for curvy or buxom.

Two facades in different styles

Commissioned half a century apart, one greets the lively campo with Baroque drama, while the other, facing a quiet canal, reflects the refined elegance of the Renaissance.

A marble framed polyptych

Considered one of Palma il Vecchio's finest works, the polyptych titled 'Saint Barbara and Saints' depicts the patroness of soldiers and other perilous occupations.

Namesake square

The church occupies a central spot in this charming campo, just a short stroll from the bustling Piazza San Marco.

Santa Maria Formosa : The church stands on the charming Campo Santa Maria Formosa, a lively square lined with shops and cafés

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Your experience here

Giggle at the quirky name while observing the rounded Baroque architecture.
Admire a luminous interior showcasing beautiful religious art.
Later, recharge at one of the charming cafés in the campo.

Open Gallery to get the feel

Palma Il Vecchio

He is renowned for graceful compositions and delicate depictions of religious figures, blending realism with idealized beauty — clearly evident in what’s considered his masterpiece: the portrayal of Saint Barbara on the church’s altarpiece.

Santa Maria Formosa : The art highlight is a six-panel altarpiece centered on Saint Barbara

More about Palma the Elder

Another tale of two styles

If having two facades in different styles is rare, it’s even more unusual to see both styles layered atop one another — as on the remarkable facade of San Zaccaria.

Beyond this elegant white exterior and the richly decorated interior, San Zaccaria is also known for its ethereal, partially flooded crypt — an atmospheric hidden gem you can visit.