Venice's Scala dei Giganti Gets New Restoration
A new initiative has launched aimed at the restoration of the Scala dei Giganti, a notable marble staircase located in the inner courtyard of Venice's Palazzo Ducale. Constructed between 1486 and 1497 by architect Antonio Rizzo, the staircase features statues of Mars and Neptune created by Jacopo Sansovino in 1565. Historically, it has been used as the Doge’s exclusive passage and a ceremonial walkway for diplomats. Despite previous restoration efforts over the last four decades, the staircase continues to exhibit damage. The project is spearheaded by Save Venice and supported by The Gritti Palace, a luxury hotel in Venice.
Key facts
- Scala dei Giganti is a monumental marble staircase in Palazzo Ducale's inner courtyard.
- Designed by Antonio Rizzo, built 1486-1497.
- Crowned with statues of Mars and Neptune by Jacopo Sansovino (1565).
- Used as Doge's entrance and ceremonial route for ambassadors.
- Two restoration campaigns in the past forty years.
- Staircase continues to show signs of decay.
- Possible causes: previous restoration materials, airborne microorganisms, climate change.
- Project led by Save Venice and Fondazione Save Venice – ETS, supported by The Gritti Palace.
Entities
Artists
- Antonio Rizzo
- Jacopo Sansovino
Institutions
- Save Venice
- Fondazione Save Venice – ETS
- The Gritti Palace, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Venice
Locations
- Venice
- Italy