The Palazzo Pisani Gritti, commonly referred to as The Gritti Palace, is one of Venice’s most iconic and historically significant landmarks. Located on the Grand Canal in the San Marco district, this Venetian Gothic palazzo is a testament to the city’s rich cultural, artistic, and architectural heritage. Originally constructed in the 14th century, it has served as a noble residence, the home of Doge Andrea Gritti, and, since 1895, a world-renowned luxury hotel under Marriott’s Luxury Collection.
The Palazzo Pisani Gritti’s history is deeply intertwined with
Venice’s aristocratic and political legacy:
Origins (14th
Century): The palazzo was first built in the 14th century, likely as a
private residence for a prominent Venetian family. Its original
structure reflected the architectural trends of the time, with elements
of Byzantine influence common in early Venetian palazzi.
Pisani
Family (1475): In 1475, the palazzo was acquired and redesigned by the
influential Pisani family, who transformed it into a Venetian Gothic
masterpiece. The Pisani family was one of Venice’s most powerful noble
families, known for their patronage of the arts and their contributions
to the city’s political and cultural life. During this period, the
palazzo’s canal-facing facade was adorned with frescoes by the renowned
artist Giorgione, though these have since been lost to time.
Doge
Andrea Gritti (1525): In 1525, the palazzo became the private residence
of Andrea Gritti, who served as the Doge of Venice from 1523 to 1538.
Gritti was a significant figure in Venetian history, known for his
diplomatic and military leadership during a period of political
turbulence. His ownership added prestige to the palazzo, and it was
further embellished with artworks and decorations, including a portrait
of Gritti painted in the atelier of Tiziano Vecellio (Titian), which was
reacquired by the hotel at a Sotheby’s auction in 2016.
Later Owners
(19th Century): Over the centuries, the palazzo passed through various
noble families, including the Gritti family again in 1814 and the
Baroness Susanna d’Eyb, widow of Baron Vetzlar. During this period, the
palazzo began to take on a new role as a residence for illustrious
guests, including the British art critic John Ruskin and his wife Effie,
who stayed there while Ruskin wrote his seminal work, The Stones of
Venice (1851–1853). The palazzo’s transition to a semi-public space laid
the groundwork for its future as a hotel.
Transformation into a Hotel
(1895): By the late 19th century, the palazzo was converted into a
luxury hotel, capitalizing on Venice’s growing popularity as a
destination for wealthy travelers during the Grand Tour era. A late
19th-century addition of an extra story expanded its capacity to
accommodate guests. Since then, it has hosted a parade of notable
figures, including Ernest Hemingway, W. Somerset Maugham, Winston
Churchill, and modern celebrities like Tom Cruise.
The Palazzo Pisani Gritti is a quintessential example of Venetian
Gothic architecture, characterized by its elegant asymmetry, intricate
detailing, and harmonious integration with its canal-side setting. Key
architectural features include:
Facade on the Grand Canal: The
canal-facing facade, redesigned in 1475, is a striking example of
Venetian Gothic style, with pointed arches, delicate tracery, and a
light, airy aesthetic. The facade once featured frescoes by Giorgione,
which have faded or been lost due to Venice’s humid climate. The
building’s red-brick exterior, typical of Venetian palazzi, contrasts
beautifully with the white Istrian stone accents.
Campo Facade: A
second facade, added in the 16th century, faces the Campo del Traghetto
(now Campo Santa Maria del Giglio). This facade is more restrained but
still reflects the Gothic style with its symmetrical window placements
and stone balustrades. The campo facade enhances the palazzo’s presence
in the urban fabric of Venice, making it accessible both by water and on
foot.
Interior Layout: The interior retains the traditional Venetian
palazzo layout, with a central portego (hallway) running from the canal
entrance to the campo side, flanked by smaller rooms. The ground floor,
originally used for storage and trade, now houses the hotel’s reception
and public areas. The piano nobile (noble floor) features grand salons
and suites, designed to impress visitors with their opulence.
Restoration and Modernization (2013): A $50 million renovation,
completed in 2013 under the direction of designer Chuck Chewning of
Donghia, meticulously restored the palazzo’s historical elements while
introducing modern amenities. The restoration preserved original
features like terrazzo floors, hand-painted ceilings, and Murano glass
chandeliers, while adding high-water protection systems and
state-of-the-art technology. Rubelli fabrics, crafted in Venice, were
used to reupholster walls and furniture, maintaining historical
authenticity.
Art Collection: The palazzo is a veritable museum of
Venetian art and craftsmanship. Highlights include the Tiziano Vecellio
portrait of Doge Andrea Gritti in the Explorer’s Library, paintings by
Pietro Longhi in the Bar Longhi, and an original Baroque counter from a
Sicilian church. The hotel’s collection of antiques, restored
chandeliers, and Murano glasswork reflects centuries of Venetian
artistry.
The Palazzo Pisani Gritti is more than a building; it is a cultural
landmark that encapsulates Venice’s history as a maritime republic,
artistic hub, and global destination:
Symbol of Venetian
Aristocracy: As the residence of the Pisani family and Doge Andrea
Gritti, the palazzo represents the power and wealth of Venice’s ruling
elite during the Renaissance. Its art collection and architectural
grandeur reflect the city’s role as a center of trade and culture.
Literary and Artistic Connections: The palazzo’s association with John
Ruskin, who wrote The Stones of Venice while staying there, underscores
its place in the intellectual history of the 19th century. Ruskin’s work
celebrated Venetian architecture and influenced the preservation of the
city’s heritage. Similarly, Ernest Hemingway’s extended stays, during
which he wrote parts of his novel Across the River and Into the Trees,
add to the palazzo’s literary cachet. The hotel’s “Wall of Fame” on the
ground floor displays autographed photos of famous guests, celebrating
its storied past.
Cinematic and Artistic Legacy: The palazzo has
appeared in films, such as Woody Allen’s Everyone Says I Love You,
cementing its status as a cultural icon. Its art collection, including
works by Longhi and Titian’s atelier, makes it a destination for art
enthusiasts.
Modern Cultural Hub: Today, The Gritti Palace continues
to attract global elites, from celebrities to political figures, who
gather to celebrate and socialize. Its suites, named after figures like
Hemingway, Maugham, and Ruskin, evoke the palazzo’s cultural legacy.
Since its conversion into a hotel in 1895, The Gritti Palace has
evolved into one of Venice’s most exclusive accommodations, blending
historical charm with modern luxury. Key features include:
Accommodations: The hotel offers 82 rooms and 21 suites, each uniquely
decorated with antiques, Murano glass, and Rubelli fabrics. Room
categories range from Deluxe Rooms with city views to Landmark Grand
Canal Rooms with sweeping vistas of the canal and landmarks like Santa
Maria della Salute. The Signature Suites, inspired by famous guests like
Hemingway and Ruskin, feature opulent details like four-poster beds,
stucco walls, and private balconies. The Hemingway Suite, at 990 square
feet, is particularly lavish, with floor-to-ceiling French doors and
canal views.
Dining: The hotel’s dining options are renowned for
their Venetian authenticity and gourmet flair:
Club del Doge: This
restaurant, with its canal-side terrace, serves refined Venetian
cuisine, such as squid ink risotto and reimagined historical recipes
like cuttlefish with broad beans. Ingredients are sourced from the
Rialto Market and the hotel’s private vegetable garden on a lagoon
island.
Bar Longhi: An elegant bar adorned with Pietro Longhi
paintings, offering cocktails and light fare in a historic setting.
Gritti Terrace: A seasonal terrace inches from the Grand Canal, ideal
for aperitifs and romantic dining.
The Gritti Epicurean School: A
unique feature, this cooking school offers half-day to three-day courses
led by Chef Alberto Fol, teaching Venetian culinary traditions. Guests
can participate in tastings and hands-on classes in a retro-style
kitchen.
Gritti SPA (Sisley Paris): The spa offers personalized
wellness treatments, including Phyto-Aromatiques massages and
aromatherapy, in single and double spa suites. A private Turkish bath
with Venetian mosaics and a Technogym-equipped fitness center enhance
the experience.
Riva Yacht Experience: Guests can book private tours
of the Venetian Lagoon aboard Il Doge, an elegant Aquariva motorboat,
offering a luxurious way to explore Venice’s waterways.
Event Spaces:
The hotel’s terraces (Redentore and Gritti Terrace) and salons (Salone
Gritti) are popular for weddings, meetings, and celebrations, offering
unparalleled views and historic ambiance.
Accessibility and Services:
The hotel is accessible by water taxi or vaporetto (Santa Maria del
Giglio stop, a 3-minute walk). It offers 24-hour concierge services,
room service, and pet-friendly policies (for pets up to 6 kg). Free
Wi-Fi, Acqua di Parma toiletries, and multilingual staff enhance the
guest experience.
The Gritti Palace’s location on the Grand Canal is both strategic and
picturesque:
Proximity to Landmarks: The hotel is a 5-minute walk
from La Fenice Opera House and 500 meters from St. Mark’s Square,
placing it at the heart of Venice’s cultural and tourist hub. The Doge’s
Palace, Piazza San Marco, and luxury boutiques are also nearby. Across
the canal, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and Santa Maria della Salute
are easily accessible by water taxi or vaporetto.
Views: The palazzo
offers breathtaking views of the Grand Canal, Santa Maria della Salute,
Punta della Dogana, and San Giorgio Maggiore, making it a prime spot for
experiencing Venice’s iconic scenery.
Transportation: Guests can
arrive via private water taxi directly to the hotel’s jetty or use the
Santa Maria del Giglio vaporetto stop. The hotel offers hostess-assisted
transfers from Venice Marco Polo Airport (approximately 1 hour by boat
and taxi) for €370–€540 one-way. Off-site parking is available at Garage
San Marco at Piazzale Roma, 1 km away.
Guests consistently describe The Gritti Palace as an “oasis of
opulent Venetian elegance,” blending historical charm with modern
luxury. Reviews highlight:
Ambiance: The palazzo’s interiors
evoke the intimacy of a private noble residence, with every
detail—hand-painted ceilings, Murano glass, and antique
furnishings—contributing to a sense of timeless grandeur.
Service:
The staff is praised for their professionalism, warmth, and
attentiveness, from pre-arrival arrangements to concierge services. Some
guests note occasional issues with staff responsiveness, but these are
outliers.
Dining and Amenities: The Club del Doge restaurant and
Gritti Terrace are lauded for their romantic settings and high-quality
cuisine. The Epicurean School and Riva Yacht Experience add unique,
memorable activities.
Challenges: Some guests mention
smaller-than-expected rooms (a common issue in historic palazzi) and
occasional overcrowding on the terrace by non-residents. High season
prices (often exceeding $1,500 per night) and Venice’s high-water risks
(mitigated by the hotel’s containment tank) are also noted.
Ratings:
The hotel enjoys a 9.4/10 rating on Booking.com and a 5/5 on
Tripadvisor, with guests describing it as “a royal magical palace” and
“the best that Venice has to offer.”