Venetian Spiral Hideaway
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Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo is located in Venice’s San Marco district, close to Campo Manin. This hidden treasure is best accessed by walking through peaceful alleys and courtyards. Keep an eye out for signs reading “Bovolo,” which means “snail shell” in Venetian. The most charming way to get there is a 10 to 15-minute walk from Piazza San Marco.
​​​​​​​It’s a good idea to use a map, as finding your way can be tricky!

Spiral of Venetian Glory​​​​​​​

​​​​​​​Originating around 1499, Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo is renowned for its stunning Scala del Bovolo, a spiral staircase commissioned by Pietro Contarini. Created by Giorgio Spavento, this masterpiece complements the Gothic architecture of the palace.
Initially a daring emblem of the family's status, it eventually captivated Grand Tour travelers and artists, becoming a lesser-known symbol of Venice.

Spiraling Secret

​​​​​​​Scala del Bovolo stands notable as one of the world's few outdoor spiral staircases.  
Its exquisite cylindrical tower has climbing classical arches and ends in a lovely loggia.  Climbing seems sculptural and strange.  At the top, you're rewarded with a peaceful, panoramic view of Venice's roofs, domes, and towers—an intimate respite from the city's busier vistas.

Timing the Spiral Right

​​​​​​​To avoid crowds, visit Scala del Bovolo in the early morning (10 AM) or late afternoon.  Spring and autumn provide ideal weather and lighting for photographs.  Winter delivers fewer people and, on clear days, better atmospheric vistas.  Summer is the busiest season; arrive early to avoid lineups.  Sunsets may be stunning, but make sure to verify seasonal closure times in advance.

Climb with Careful Wonder

​​​​​​​Scala di Bovolo requires patience; consult a map and appreciate the backstreets.  
Wear strong shoes for the 144 tiny steps, which need firm balance and agility.  
Space is limited, especially at the top; please be courteous to others.  Travel light, as huge luggage are not ideal.  
The staircase is open-air, therefore the weather counts.  Most essential, respect the ancient structure and other guests.

Wonders Within Walking Distance

​​​​​​​Scala del Bovolo's central location gives it a great base for exploring Venice.  Nearby attractions include Campo Manin, the Rialto Bridge and markets, Teatro La Fenice, and the iconic Piazza San Marco. 
Museo Fortuny is a must-see for art enthusiasts, but lesser-known churches such as San Fantin provide peaceful beauty.  For a local snack, travel to Rialto to find classic cicchetti bars and Venetian delicacies.

Whispers of Venetian Romance

​​​​​​​Despite the lack of major tales, Scala del Bovolo is full with stories.  Goethe notably appreciated its spiral when traveling across Italy, making it a literary icon.  Local folklore indicates that it was a hidden lovers' stairway.  
The moniker "Bovolo," which means snail shell, shows how Venetians adopted this exquisite spiral, transforming an aristocratic emblem into a treasured local treasure.

Art’s Venetian Spiral Muse​​​​​​​

Scala del Bovolo's remarkable architecture has influenced both artists and filmmakers.  It is most known for its appearance in Orson Welles' 1952 film Othello, when it serves as a dramatic stairway for important sequences.  
Painters and photographers like its play of light and shadow, and authors frequently use it as a symbol of Venice's secret architectural appeal, which enriches innumerable travel books.