Save Venice is pleased to announce the completion of the restoration of the Sala d’Oro and the Chapel of the Rosary at the Conservatorio di Musica Benedetto Marcello, housed in Palazzo Pisani. The transformative results were presented to the public on January 29, 2026. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Thompson Family Foundation for their generous support.

The 2025 treatment was carried out by experienced conservators, recent graduates, and students from the Istituto Veneto per i Beni Culturali (IVBC) restoration school, offering invaluable hands-on fieldwork. With the support of Save Venice, this partnership—now in its third year—between two of Venice’s most prestigious educational institutions enriches students’ training through a unique “school within a school.” These efforts not only safeguard Venice’s artistic heritage, but also invest in the next generation of professionals while strengthening the city’s artistic, cultural, and economic vitality.

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See the wonderful artistic treasures at the Conservatorio di Musica Benedetto Marcello in Palazzo Pisani that have been restored under the care of the experienced conservators, recent graduates, and students of the IVBC restoration school. Video: Joan Porcel

The ceiling of the Sala d’Oro is richly decorated with intricate stuccowork in white, green, and gold, centered on a large oval motif with interlacing patterns. This decoration is likely the work of the renowned plasterer Giuseppe Ferrari and dates to the late 1770s. The adjoining Chapel of the Rosary probably dates to 1717, as indicated by two inscriptions in the apse, and has undergone multiple reworkings over the centuries. The chapel features fifteen episodes from the life of Christ depicted in the lunettes and in monochrome scenes within the ceiling compartments. The small altar is crowned by a canvas representing the Mystic Marriage of Saint Catherine, painted by the Roman artist Ciro Ferri (1634–1689). Today, these spaces serve the Conservatory as rehearsal rooms for students and for hosting special exhibitions and educational activities.

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This important partnership will continue in 2026 with the conservation treatment of the frescoed ceiling of the Camerino “Chinoise” and the stonework of the mezzanine loggia of Palazzo Pisani’s main staircase. Contact us today to learn more about these sponsorship opportunities.