The Castello district, the largest of Venice’s six sestieri, offers an authentic and picturesque view of Venetian life. It is dominated by the 12th century Arsenale, origin of the word “arsenal”, once the largest shipyard and armory complex in Europe. Wander through Castello’s working class lanes to discover architectural gems like the Basilica San Pietro di Castello, Venice’s co-cathedral with San Marco, and the Renaissance Chiesa di San Francesco della Vigna, one of two Franciscan churches in Venice. Feel immersed in the neighborhood as you stroll past shops on Via Garibaldi. Pavilions in the Giardini Biennale, gardens created by Napoleon, host the stylish avant-garde Venice Biennale.
*Note: The Arsenale and Giardini Biennale are venues for the international contemporary art/architecture exhibition Biennale di Venezia. The Art Biennale is held in odd-numbered years, the Architecture Biennale in even years, from May to November. Entrance to the Biennale requires a ticket.