Bronze Guardian Beckons

​​​​​​​The Statua di Paolo Sarpi is located in Venice's Cannaregio district, in the lovely Campo Santa Fosca neighborhood, right off the bustling Strada Nova.  
It's a lovely 15-20-minute walk from Venezia Santa Lucia station, or you can take the vaporetto to Ca' d'Oro or Guglie stations, which are both about 5 minutes away on foot.  
Look for the bronze monument that dominates the square.

Venice’s Defiant Friar​​​​​​​

​​​​​​​The monument, erected in 1892, commemorates Fra Paolo Sarpi, a Servite Franciscan and outstanding statesman who supported Venetian freedom during the Interdict Crisis (1606–1607).  
Sarpi's impassioned arguments against papal meddling made him an icon of secular liberty.  Emilio Marsili sculpted the monument, which depicts Venice's 19th-century pride in republican and liberal principles.

Explore Mindfully, Respectfully

​​​​​​​To fully appreciate the statue, learn about Sarpi and the Interdict Crisis first.  
Remember that Campo Santa Fosca is a vibrant public place; please respect the inhabitants by keeping noise to a minimum and refraining from touching the monument.  Take time to admire the local church, architecture, and daily life.  
Keep an eye on your stuff in this crowded Venetian district.

Quiet Power, Bold Legacy

​​​​​​​This monument distinguishes out because it celebrates an intellectual hero rather than a warrior, which is unusual in Venice.  Located in Cannaregio, it provides an insight into normal Venetian life away from the tourist hordes.  
Sarpi's steadfast stance, book in hand, represents defiance through reason, commemorating Venice's brave stand for sovereignty and secular ideals during a critical historical conflict.

Perfect Visit Timing

The monument is open 24 hours a day, however your experience depends on when you visit.  Mornings provide vibrant local scenery and excellent photo opportunities.  
​​​​​​​Late afternoon gives warm light and calming energy.  Evenings feature mood lighting and a relaxed atmosphere, with nearby wine bars.  Avoid the lunchtime throng for a more tranquil visit to this lovely Venetian piazza.

Discover Cannaregio’s Gems

​​​​​​​Explore the nearby ancient Jewish Ghetto, wander down the lively Strada Nova, which is lined with stores and cafés, and see the majestic Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Ca' d'Oro castle.  Don't miss the local bacari for authentic Venetian cicchetti, and the nearby Santa Fosca Church for a cultural experience.

Welcoming All Ages

​​​​​​​Campo Santa Fosca is perfect for families, seniors, and children.  
The large, flat square provides easy access and lots of seating.  
youngsters appreciate the big statue and the neighboring gelato shops, while older youngsters may learn about Sarpi's eventful tale.  It's a safe, convenient, and free stop for people of all ages.

Defiant Sneeze Legend

​​​​​​​A well-known story about Paolo Sarpi recounts his calm defiance after surviving a 1607 assassination attempt.  
Sarpi reportedly sneezed, claiming that it was the only appropriate response after recognizing the Roman Curia's style in the stiletto.  This narrative depicts his wit and tenacity, a legacy embodied by the statue that stands proudly today.

Sarpi’s Cultural Footprint

​​​​​​​Though the monument is rarely shown in art or cinema, Paolo Sarpi's life inspired several historical books, scholarly works, and tragedies.  
His significance in Venice's history and church-state tensions makes him an intriguing character.  
The bustling Cannaregio area where the monument sits is frequently featured in films depicting true Venetian life and atmosphere.