Cannaregio: the most authentic district in Venice
One of the six most densely populated districts
in Venice, Cannaregio is truly an authentic corner of the city, far from
the crowds of tourists, yet packed with history, culture and centuries-old
traditions. The district stretches along the Grand Canal between the railway
station of Santa Lucia and the Jewish Ghetto. It is well-known for its narrow
alleys, peaceful squares and a magical atmosphere that takes you back in
time. It has a downmarket soul, yet there are also noble palaces and historic
churches, from the Gothic Ca' d'Oro to the Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli,
a masterpiece of Venetian Renaissance.
Laguna Fiorita: a green gem in the heart of Cannaregio
Close to the Church of the Misericordia is one of Cannaregio's hidden wonders,
the Laguna Fiorita
nursery, and a perfect place for a walk to discover another
side of Venice. It is a green oasis in
the city centre: it holds a variety of exotic and local plants, cared for with
passion and devotion.
The Laguna Fiorita project was designed to raise community awareness of
the conservation of our botanical heritage and to create a focal point for art,
nature and sustainability. It is not only a place of beauty, the nursery is
also a major centre for ecological and cultural education, where they
organise events, workshops and activities that aim to promote environmental
culture.
The Church of Santa Maria Maddalena: a place of mystery and "Masonic" history
Another place you mustn't miss is the deconsecrated Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, known simply as The Maddalena. It has a mysterious,
unusual past. The church was built in the 13th century and is a perfect
example of how the history of Venice is intertwined with often unknown or
rarely mentioned events.
The symbol above the entrance is already a sign: an eye within a
triangle, which some say is clearly Masonic. The motto “sapiente aedificavit
siti domum” translates as “wisdom has built its own house".
In fact, over the centuries, the church housed Masonic meetings and ceremonies
and created an atmosphere of esoteric symbolism, which continues to pervade it.
Not without reason is the church dedicated to Mary Magdalene, an enigmatic
character often rejected by the official church, even though she was much loved
by the Masonry, who saw her as a symbol of wisdom and the struggle against the
church's obscurantism. The intrinsic beauty of the Gothic lines and ancient
decorations of the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena is a clear reminder of a secret,
mysterious Venice.
We look forward to welcoming you to Venice!
Locanda Ca' Lucrezia is in the Cannaregio district and is a stone’s throw from Santa Lucia train station. We will be happy to welcome you to our tiny hotel. Your tourist tax will exempt you from the day-tripper access fee.
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