Ca' Pesaro: Venice’s Baroque Jewel

Located along the Grand Canal, Ca’ Pesaro is one of Venice's most striking examples of Baroque architecture. Once the grand home of the noble Pesaro family, this palazzo has been transformed into two extraordinary museums: the Museum of Modern Art and the International Gallery of Modern Art. It’s a place where Venetian history, Baroque elegance, and modern art collide in a fascinating mix of old and new.

But there’s more to Ca’ Pesaro than just its artwork—this palazzo has a fascinating history that adds layers of intrigue to every visit.

Fun Facts and Curiosities

• A Family's Grandeur: The Pesaro family, who commissioned the construction of the palazzo in the 17th century, were Venetian aristocrats with a penchant for luxury. Ca’ Pesaro was designed by the architect Giuseppe Benoni to be a statement of the family's wealth and power. The building’s stunning façade, with its dramatic curves and intricate carvings, was meant to stand out among the more traditional Venetian palaces along the Grand Canal.

• Venetian Masterpiece with a Twist: One of the quirks of Ca’ Pesaro is the use of Baroque ornamentation—which was quite unusual in Venice. While most Venetian architecture favored Renaissance and Gothic styles, the Pesaro family opted for a more extravagant, theatrical design that you can still admire today. The palazzo’s curved exterior, designed to make a dramatic impression on the Grand Canal, is one of the few Baroque façades in Venice.

• A Modern Twist: Today, Ca' Pesaro is home to one of Italy’s most impressive collections of modern and contemporary art. The museum boasts works from iconic artists like Giorgio de Chirico, Salvador Dalí, and Marc Chagall, giving the palazzo a fascinating contrast between its historic, Baroque architecture and the revolutionary styles of modern art. It’s one of Venice’s best-kept secrets for lovers of 20th-century art.

• A Secret Garden: Behind the grandeur of Ca’ Pesaro, you’ll find a tranquil, almost hidden garden that offers a peaceful retreat from the busy streets of Venice. Few people know that this lush courtyard is a perfect spot for some quiet reflection, and it’s a place where you can step out of the rush of the city and take in a bit of Venice’s quieter, more serene side.

• The 1900s Art Museum: Ca' Pesaro isn’t just a modern art museum; it also holds one of Italy's most important collections of early 20th-century art. Some visitors are surprised to discover that the museum showcases the works of Italian artists who played a pivotal role in shaping the avant-garde movement in Europe. It’s not only a place for the famous, but also for discovering lesser-known, yet equally fascinating, artists.

Visiting Ca' Pesaro is like stepping into a world where the opulence of Venice’s past meets the boldness of modern creativity. Whether you're drawn to its Baroque beauty, the fascinating mix of art collections, or the peaceful garden, this palazzo offers a unique experience in the heart of Venice.