Squero is the Venetian word for the shipyard where gondolas are built, a job done entirely by hand by the squeraroli. Squero San Trovaso, founded in the 17th century and owned today by the Venice Municipality, is one of the very few ateliers still active in town. In the golden age of the Serenissima Republic there were dozens of squero in Venice, able to deliver any kind of traditional vessel – pupparini, sandoli, sciopòni, to list but a few of their charming names – but today the squero that are left focus on gondola making and repairs.

The squero is built in a typical way, with a structure that has a boat slip and an open but sheltered area around it where all workings and operations are carried out by hand. Squero San Trovaso makes no exception. The serene and authentic beauty of this iconic Venetian spot attracts thousands of tourists who come to admire the skills of the artisans working on this fascinating yet endangered craft.