The external multi-arch spiral staircase has 80 monolithic steps that climb counterclockwise across five levels inside a 26-meter-high cylindrical tower constructed from Istrian stone and bricks.

An irreverent project

Tower construction was always restricted to church and state buildings to prevent potential military use. However, around 1400, the Contarini family, eager to display their wealth and power, boldly erected this unconventional structure blending Venetian Gothic, Byzantine and Renaissance styles.

The owners

The House of Contarini is one of the twelve founding families of the Venetian Republic and one of the oldest noble families in Italy. Eight Doges emerged from this esteemed lineage.

But why 'bovolo'?

‘Bovolo' means snail shell in the Venetian dialect, a nod to the staircase's unique spiral design.

270° panoramic views

From the terrace at the top of the staircase, you're hovering just above the Venetian rooftops, with panoramic views and iconic landmarks all around. As a bonus, this is the only climb in Venice that offers continuous outdoor views on the way up.

Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo : At the top of the staircase is the covered Belvedere terrace

Discover more about Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo through 18 photos with explanations.

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What to experience here

Take a small detour from the beaten path for a hidden architectural gem.
Get delightfully dizzy climbing the wide spiral stairs and enjoy new views unfolding as you rise.
Reach the top and claim your reward: sweeping views over Venice's rooftops.
On your way back down, stop at Sala del Tintoretto to admire one of his paintings and the displays from the various temporary exhibitions.

Book tickets online

The ticket grants access to the staircase interior, letting you climb at your own pace and linger on the top terrace.

It also includes the Sala del Tintoretto, home to a painting by the master and temporary exhibitions.

Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo : Sala del Tintoretto actually contains just one painting by the master: Il Paradiso (The Paradise), here behind the temporary exhibition's displays

The golden sibling

Whereas the Bovolo is tucked away in a quiet courtyard, this other Contarini palace commands attention on the Grand Canal: Ca' d'Oro (The Golden House) is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of Venetian Gothic architecture.

Today, in addition to admiring its exquisite architecture, you can explore its art collection, wander through the inner courtyard adorned with polychrome marble mosaics, and take in prime elevated views of the Grand Canal from the upper loggia, just as Venetian royalty once did.

Ca' d'Oro : The loggia on the top floor offers views of the Grand Canal framed by Gothic arcades

Explore Ca d'Oro

Your questions, answered

We've answered some of the most common questions about Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo to help you plan your visit:

Is the climb difficult?

There are 80 wide spiral steps, followed by roughly 20 narrower ones near the top. The tower stands at 26 meters, and the staircase is open-air. It's relatively short overall and manageable for most visitors. There is no elevator.

Is there a time limit at the top?

Not officially, but expect a natural flow on busy days. The upper terrace is quite small, so most visitors spend about 10-15 minutes enjoying the views before making room for others.

Can I see it without a ticket?

Yes, the exterior of the staircase is visible from the ground-level courtyard, which you can enter for free. Even if the courtyard is closed for any reason, the tower is still visible from small calle (alley) just outside the courtyard. To climb the steps and reach the belvedere at the top, however, a ticket is required.