Within the historic Arsenale of Venice lies a testament to the city’s naval power. I am talking about the Tese delle Nappe. These covered pavilions once played a vital role in Venice’s maritime prowess. Let’s uncover the secrets of the Tese delle Nappe.
The Venice Arsenale was the heart of the Venetian naval industry. From the 12th century onward, it stood as one of the largest pre-industrial production centers. Thousands of operators worked here. It was more than a shipyard. It pulsed with the power and military strength of the Republic of Venice.
Tese are covered pavilions. They served a practical purpose. Sails of old ships were stretched here. The Tese delle Nappe, Tese di San Cristoforo, Tesa 99, Tesa 100, Tesa 105, and Tesa 113 all played their part.
The Arsenale has Arabic roots. Dar al-sina meant “the house of art or manufacture.” The Arsenale was a public shipyard. Venetians built their warships here. The State controlled this efficient and organized factory.
Established as early as the 12th century, the Arsenale expanded over time. It covered a large area in the city’s north-eastern section. Buildings arose to meet the fleet’s many needs. The corderie produced ropes. The artiglierie and sale d’armi manufactured and stored weapons. The gaggiandre sheltered galleys.
The Arsenale guarded the secrets of the Venetian fleet. A tall wall with merlons surrounded it like a fortress. In the 16th century, the government even walled up windows. They feared spies using the bell tower of San Francesco della Vigna.
Yet, the Arsenale showcased Venetian skills. Special guests toured its spaces. They marveled at the shipbuilding. In 1574, King Henry III of France visited. He saw Venetians build a galley in a single day.
After the Republic’s fall in 1797, rulers updated the Arsenale. New naval technologies emerged. The Porta Nuova opened. The Torre di Porta Nuova housed machinery to mast ships.
The Italian State made more innovations after 1866. Iron ships and submarines were constructed. Cranes came from England. A Fairbairn steam crane arrived in 1874. An Armstrong Mitchell hydraulic crane followed in 1885.
After World War I, much of the Arsenale was abandoned. The navy no longer needed the spaces. In 1980, a new chapter began. The Architecture Biennale used the Arsenale as a venue.
Today, spaces within the Arsenale host the Biennale regularly. The Corderie hosts the thematic exhibition. National pavilions fill the Sale d’Armi and Artiglierie. The Tese once stored wood. The Italian Pavilion features a new entrance by Cino Zucchi. The Gaggiandre often showcase installations over the water. The Giardino delle Vergini hosts site-specific projects.
The Tese delle Nappe are part of this vibrant scene. They are spaces for events and exhibitions. The Tese delle Nappe have been remodeled several times. The roofs were recently restored.
The Tese delle Nappe stand as a symbol. They represent the power of the “Serenissima” Republic. The Arsenale and the Tese delle Nappe offer a glimpse into Venice’s naval history. They provide a unique setting for modern events. As you stand here at the Tese delle Nappe, consider its past. It remains a vital part of Venice.