Thirty thousand ducats. That’s what it cost to build Palazzo Dolfin Manin. Can you imagine the sheer extravagance? This magnificent palace before you stands as a testament to the wealth and power of Venice’s elite.
Palazzo Dolfin Manin isn’t just a pretty face on the Grand Canal. It’s a living history book. Originally built in 1536 for the Dolfin family it replaced two older medieval buildings. They faced opposition from neighbors like the Bembo Dandolo and Da Molin families. The construction itself was a major undertaking. Zuane Dolfin oversaw much of the initial building. His ambition was matched by the city’s authority. They demanded a public walkway be included. The renowned Jacopo Sansovino designed the facade. This was completed between 1538 and 1547. Some say this was Sansovino’s first palace. But others claim the Ca’ Corner della Ca’ Granda predates it. Regardless the result is breathtaking.
The Dolfin family eventually sold the palace. It passed through several noble families such as the Pesaro Venier Dolce and Correggio. Then in the 18th century the Manin family acquired a significant portion. They were newly minted members of Venice’s Golden Book of Nobility. They used the piano nobile as their headquarters. Ludovico Manin the last Doge of Venice was a member of this family. He made significant changes to the palace. He commissioned Giannantonio Selva to remove the courtyard and replace the staircase with a neoclassical masterpiece. He initially planned for a complete neoclassical renovation of the facade. But fierce opposition prevented that.
After the fall of the Venetian Republic in 1797 Ludovico Manin resided here for five years. His family owned Palazzo Dolfin Manin until 1867. Then it became the property of the Banca Nazionale del Regno. The palace underwent various restorations. These were in 1968-1971 and again in 2002. Today it houses the Venetian branch of the Banca d’Italia. Its location near the Rialto Bridge is ideal. The surrounding area has changed significantly. The widening of streets and filling of canals altered the neighborhood. Calle della Scimmia adjacent to the palace was even extended and renamed.
Inside the palazzo is stunning. The building boasts artwork by Giambattista Tiepolo. Some believe his work was created for Lodovico Manin’s marriage to Elisabetta Grimani in 1748. The ceilings and stuccoes in certain rooms remain. They are a testament to the artistry of Giannantonio Selva Pierantonio Novelli Jacopo Guarana Costantino Cedini Pietro Moro and Giuseppe Bernardino Bison. Palazzo Dolfin Manin is more than just a building. It is a captivating narrative of power wealth and artistic achievement. A story etched in stone and painted on canvas. A true Venetian gem.