Guided tour: gold and amber at Fondaco dei Tedeschi
Fondaco dei Tedeschi organises guided tours to unveil some of the history of one of the most impressive and remarkable buildings in the Rialto area. The tour will tell the stories behind the visible traces and stories concerning goods exchange: on its marble balconies and columns there are over 200 signs, engravings and paintings by the merchants who came from countries beyond the Alps in the Middle Ages. Located on the Grand Canal and being the backdrop to the Rialto Bridge, the magnificent building has been depicted countless times, yet most people don’t know its identity or significance.
Fondaco dei Tedeschi by DFS
A crucial crossroad for trade and culture between East and WestFondaco dei Tedeschi, the first flagship store of DFS Group in Europe, occupies one of the most fascinating buildings in Venice, just a few steps from the Rialto Bridge. Since the 13th century, the historical Fontego dei Tedeschi has been a crucial location for trade relations between East and West. Fontego is Venetian for store-house. Situated on the Grand Canal, the ground floor was accessible by water and, as the name suggests, was used for storing goods. It was first erected in 1228, then rebuilt – after a fire – between 1505 and 1508 as a four-floor structure surrounding an impressive inner courtyard. It was decorated by Titian, Giorgione, Veronese and Tintoretto. Opened on 1 October 2016, Fondaco dei Tedeschi now offers a selection of top quality products throughout the 7,000 square metres of space. It’s also an important cultural centre, thanks to the contemporary art exhibitions and the rich calendar of initiatives taking place in the Event Pavillion on the fourth floor, drawing a large crowd.
Audio guide
A free audio guide, available to stream from 10 April to 1 May, will enhance your experience of Homo Faber in Citta. Discover more about Venice, its crafts workshops and its heritage as a city of craftsmanship, to complement your personal tour.
ListenWhere you'll be
30124, Venice
+39 0413137007 Send an email Website
Things to know
- Guest requirements
Please stay informed about the latest Covid safety requirements in Venice and comply with any requests from the venues you visit, to ensure the safety of yourself and the participating artisans.
- When to arrive
Make sure you arrive on time at each venue (although no more than ten minutes early), to make the most of your experience and the artisan’s time. Please call the venue ahead of time if you are likely to be late.
- Cancellation policy
Please let us know if you wish to cancel your booking so that we may offer the opportunity to another visitor. Cancel or rebook directly on your account or via your confirmation or reminder email. If cancelling on the day of your event, kindly inform the venue by telephone.
