Chiesa di Sant'Andrea
Chioggia's oldest church, home to the world's oldest functional clock tower and a stunning Baroque interior.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Chiesa di Sant'Andrea
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Chioggia's oldest church, home to the world's oldest functional clock tower and a stunning Baroque interior.
"A historical gem with the world's oldest clock and beautiful art, a must-see in Chioggia."
🕰️ Clock Tower Access
Inquire about guided tours for clock tower access; it's often demonstrated during specific visits.
🎨 Art Appreciation
Take time to admire the Baroque altars and the 'Crucifixion' by Palma il Vecchio.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
World's Oldest Functional Clock Tower
Bell Tower
Marvel at a medieval watchtower housing the planet's oldest working clock, a testament to 10th-century ingenuity.
Baroque Interior & Art Collection
Main Church
Explore seven stunning Baroque altars and significant artworks, including a captivating 'Crucifixion' by Palma il Vecchio.
Byzantine Roots & Naval Motifs
Central Nave
Discover the church's Byzantine origins and unique ceiling and wall paintings referencing Chioggia's maritime heritage.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Chioggia's Oldest Gem
Unlocking the Secrets of Sant'Andrea
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🕰️ Clock Tower Access
Inquire about guided tours for clock tower access; it's often demonstrated during specific visits.
🎨 Art Appreciation
Take time to admire the Baroque altars and the 'Crucifixion' by Palma il Vecchio.
📍 Location Convenience
Easily accessible on Corso del Popolo, Chioggia's main street.
📜 Historical Depth
Learn about its 10th-century origins and 18th-century rebuilds.
Tips
from all over the internet
🕰️ Clock Tower Access
Inquire about guided tours for clock tower access; it's often demonstrated during specific visits.
🎨 Art Appreciation
Take time to admire the Baroque altars and the 'Crucifixion' by Palma il Vecchio.
📍 Location Convenience
Easily accessible on Corso del Popolo, Chioggia's main street.
📜 Historical Depth
Learn about its 10th-century origins and 18th-century rebuilds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Chiesa di Sant'Andrea for its historical significance, particularly its status as the oldest religious building in Chioggia and its unique clock tower. The beautiful Baroque interior and the art collection, including works by Palma il Vecchio, are frequently highlighted as major attractions. Some visitors note that access to the clock tower may be limited and recommend checking for demonstration times.
"The beautiful Church of San Andrea Apostolo is the oldest religious building in Chioggia, and as a bell tower it has a medieval watchtower dating back to the mid-10th century, which preserves the oldest functional clock tower in the world, made by family Dondi, famous watch manufacturers. The church is located along the main street in Chioggia, Corso del Popolo. The first traces of this building date back to the 10th century, in the Byzantine style with a Latin cross plan, divided into three naves by a series of pillars. At the time of the transfer of the episcopal seat from the island of Malamocco to Chioggia in 1110, the church of Sant'Andrea became the episcopal church, which housed the relics of the patron saint of San Felice and San Fortunato, until the completion of the extensions in the church of the Nativity of Mary, which subsequently became a cathedral. The present church of S. Andrea was built in 1743, after the collapse of the apse on the nearby church of San Giacomo in 1739, and therefore the church of S. Andrea also suffered many significant damages, and needed restoration. The facade is in baroque style. The interior is beautiful with many significant works of art by famous masters, among which seven magnificent altars stand out. Inside, the baptistery is attributed to Sansovino, while the most significant work of art is a canvas depicting the Crucifixion of the great Venetian master Palma il Vecchio. The ceiling and part of the walls are painted with various fresh and dry techniques, performed by different artists between the 19th and 20th centuries, with decorations and references to the naval and fishing world of the Venetian lagoon. The central nave is adorned with geometric and naturalistic motifs and with Latin letters in large letters that recall the events of San Andrea. In the central nave, inside three medallions, it is possible to see The Call, the Martyrdom and the Glory of San Andrea, made by Giuseppe Cherubini in 1929."
Asiyah Noemi Koso
"Beautiful church"
Agassiz
"Among the most important sacred buildings in Chioggia is the Church of Sant'Andrea, which overlooks Corso del Popolo. The monument was built in the 18th century, remodeling a pre-existing 15th-century church. According to local sources, a church existed on the site as early as the 7th century, and its layout has always been maintained throughout the various buildings. The façade of the Church of Sant'Andrea is Baroque. The richly decorated interior is airy and luminous thanks to its decorations. The baptistery inside the monument was likely created by Sansovino, while the beautiful canvas of the Crucifixion that can be admired is the work of Giovanni Buonconsiglio, also known as Marescalco. Also worth seeing are the canvas of Saint Andrew by Antonio Marinetti, known as Chiazzotto, several works of art by Giuseppe Cherubini, and a gilded wooden statue dating back to the 16th century. Next to the Church of Sant'Andrea, you can admire the Bell Tower of Chioggia."
Mauro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chiesa di Sant'Andrea is conveniently located on Corso del Popolo, the main street of Chioggia. You can easily reach it by walking from most parts of the city. If arriving by ferry or bus, it's a pleasant stroll through the charming streets of Chioggia.
Parking in Chioggia can be challenging, especially in the historic center. It's best to use public parking areas outside the immediate vicinity of the church and walk. Consider parking at the port or designated lots and enjoying the walk along the canal.
Yes, Chioggia is a popular day trip from Venice. You can take a bus or a ferry. The church is centrally located, making it easy to visit once you arrive in Chioggia.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, and it's advisable to check locally or online before your visit. Generally, churches in Italy are open during daylight hours, but specific times for Sant'Andrea should be confirmed.
Typically, visiting the main church area of Sant'Andrea is free. However, access to specific areas like the bell tower or special exhibitions might incur a fee.
For general entry to the church, advance booking is usually not required. However, if you are interested in a guided tour, especially for the clock tower, it's wise to inquire about booking options.
As with most religious sites, visitors are expected to dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered). Photography might be restricted in certain areas, so be mindful of signage.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The bell tower of Sant'Andrea is remarkable because it's a medieval watchtower that houses the world's oldest functional tower clock, dating back to the mid-10th century. It's a unique historical artifact.
Inside, you'll find seven Baroque-style altars and several significant works of art, including a notable canvas depicting the 'Crucifixion' by the Venetian master Palma il Vecchio.
Guided tours may be available, particularly for those interested in the history of the clock tower. It's recommended to inquire locally about tour schedules and availability.
While the church was rebuilt in the 18th century with a Baroque facade, its origins are much older, with traces dating back to the 10th century and a Byzantine influence. The interior features Baroque altars.
The central nave is adorned with geometric and naturalistic motifs, along with Latin inscriptions. It also features three medallions depicting 'The Call,' 'The Martyrdom,' and 'The Glory of San Andrea.'
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, being on Corso del Popolo, the church is surrounded by numerous restaurants, cafes, and trattorias offering local seafood and Venetian specialties. You'll have plenty of dining options nearby.
Chioggia is famous for its fresh seafood. Don't miss trying 'sarde in saor' (sweet and sour sardines), grilled fish, and 'bigoli in salsa' (pasta with anchovy sauce).
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography is often prohibited to protect the artworks. Always check for specific signage within the church.
The exterior, especially the bell tower with its unique clock, is very photogenic. Inside, the Baroque altars and the 'Crucifixion' painting offer great photographic opportunities. The surrounding streets of Chioggia also provide charming backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the visual aspects of the church, like the colorful frescoes and the grand altars, which can capture a child's imagination. The story of the Dondi family and their clock-making legacy can be simplified into an engaging narrative. Remember to check for any specific family-friendly tour options that might make the visit more interactive.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Delve into the church's past as the former episcopal seat and its role in safeguarding relics. The artistic treasures within, from Palma il Vecchio's 'Crucifixion' to the detailed frescoes depicting Chioggia's maritime life, provide ample material for study and appreciation. Exploring the evolution of this sacred space offers a profound understanding of the region's historical and cultural development.
🎨 Art Lovers
Beyond these focal points, the frescoes and decorative paintings adorning the ceiling and walls offer a broader artistic experience, reflecting local themes and artistic trends of the 19th and 20th centuries. The intricate details in the nave, from geometric patterns to narrative medallions, provide a comprehensive visual feast for any art lover.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Marvel of the World's Oldest Clock
This clock is a testament to the ingenuity of its time, predating many other famous historical clocks. Its continued operation, even if demonstrative, is a remarkable feat. Visitors interested in history and mechanics will find this aspect of the church particularly fascinating. Experiencing the demonstration of this ancient clock is a unique opportunity to connect with centuries of innovation.
Artistic Treasures Within
Beyond the prominent altars and paintings, the church's interior features decorative frescoes and paintings on its ceiling and walls, created by various artists between the 19th and 20th centuries. These decorations often incorporate motifs related to the naval and fishing world of the Venetian lagoon, reflecting Chioggia's deep connection to the sea. The central nave itself is adorned with geometric patterns, naturalistic elements, and Latin inscriptions, further enriching the visual experience and telling the story of San Andrea.
A Layered History: From Byzantine to Baroque
The church has undergone significant transformations over the centuries. It was rebuilt in the 18th century after suffering damage, resulting in its current Baroque facade. This rebuilding effort aimed to restore its grandeur and accommodate its role as a central place of worship. The church has also historically served as a temporary repository for relics from the Cathedral of Chioggia during its restoration periods, highlighting its enduring importance in the city's religious landscape.
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