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.