Marvelous Ca’ Dolfin isn’t it? Right before your eyes stands a testament to Venetian history. This magnificent palace whispers tales of powerful families and artistic brilliance.
Initially built for the Dolfin family in 1536 it replaced two older buildings. The construction cost a hefty 30000 ducats. Zuane Dolfin a powerful figure pushed through its construction facing opposition from neighbors. The palace boasts a trapezoidal design with a courtyard and access from the Rio dei Coffaneri. Jacopo Sansovino a master architect designed its facade. This was likely his first palace design though some debate exists. The facade features six arches supported by seven pilasters. The arches correspond to Ionic columns above and Corinthian ones on the second floor.
Over time the Dolfin family rented and later sold Ca’ Dolfin. The Pesaro Venier Dolce and Correggio families owned it. In the early 18th century the Manin family took over. They were Venetian nobility. Ludovico Manin the last Doge of Venice lived here after the Republic’s fall in 1797. He resided in the palace for five years.
The Manins added their mark. They commissioned Giannantonio Selva to renovate the palace. The courtyard and shops were removed. A neoclassical staircase replaced the old one. Plans for a complete facade redesign were abandoned due to opposition. The Manin family owned a significant library expanded in 1810. Sadly economic troubles forced the family to disperse their collection including furniture.
The palace passed to the Banca Nazionale del Regno in 1867. Today it houses a branch of the Banca d’Italia. The interiors were redecorated in 1911. The building underwent restorations between 1968 and 1971 and again in 2002. Ca’ Dolfin’s history reflects Venice’s changes. The palace remains a symbol of Venice’s rich past and enduring presence. Its beauty and history are worth exploring. You can almost feel the echoes of the past within its walls.