Rising loftily above the Venetian skyline, the campanile (belltower) of San Francesco della Vigna is not only a landmark across the city, but also a structure which resonates with architectural, historical and spiritual significance. 

As the first church commission completed by Andrea Palladio, San Francesco della Vigna holds a particular place in architectural history.  Constructed over the course of a decade from 1571-81 under the direction of Bernardino Ongarino, the current tower replaced an earlier 12th-century structure that was destroyed by lightning in 1489.  At about 70 metres tall, it is one of Venice’s tallest structures. 

In fact, its position overlooking the militarily shipbuilding yards of the Arnesale, caused some consternation in the Venetian government who feared it might be used as a strategic lookout for spies.

The site holds special significance in Venice’s legendary history as the place where St. Mark had a vision of an angel, who foretold that he would one day be buried in Venice.

Venice in Peril Fund is delighted to renew its long-standing relationship with San Francesco della Vigna through this latest project. Previously, we have supported major conservation on the Palladian facade and its bronze statues, whereas work on the  Grimani Chapel was understated as a joint project with other committees in the mid-1990s. 

This time attention turns to the essential conservative maintenance of the belltower with the aim of preserving its material integrity by eliminating both causes of historical deterioration and current active agents of decay. The bell tower has suffered from several forms of decay typical for such structures exposed to the elements, including degradation to the brick facing, erosion and destabilisation. The upper levels are particularly vulnerable to vegetation growth, which has taken hold in numerous fissures. This is accelerating deterioration, both through the action of pressure and the acidity released by the root tips. 

The planned intervention will involve two stages: targeted weeding to address invasive plant growth on the upper structure & structural masonry infilling and grouting and general consolidation 

The project will be carried out by a specially trained and highly experienced team of abseiling architectural conservators, led by architect Ilaria Forti. This technique, widely used in Venice, allows essential conservation work to be done without the significant cost and time involved in erecting scaffolding. 

Venice in Peril Fund has committed to raising €12,000.