Restored in 2001 with funding from the California Chapter of Save Venice Inc.

This impressive arch, located in the public gardens (Giardini Pubblici) of Castello, was once part of the church of Saint Anthony Abbot; the church was demolished in 1810 to make room for the park, which was designed by Gianmaria Selva. Among the artistic works salvaged from the church was the arched entrance to a chapel dedicated to the Madonna, commissioned by Doge Pietro Lando (ruled 1538–1545). The arch is framed by two engaged fluted columns that rise to support an entablature with a Doric frieze; winged victories fill the spandrels, and groups of trophies decorate the tall pedestals of the columns. The entire structure is topped with a projecting triangular pediment. The arch is traditionally believed to be the work of Veronese architect Michele Sanmicheli, who was active in Venice from 1529 to 1569.

The arch was recomposed outdoors in 1822, twelve years after the chapel’s destruction. In preparation for its reinstallation near the canal entrance of the public gardens, a brick supporting structure was added to the Istrian stone arch, and some damaged decorative elements were modified.

The work was restored by conservators from the Edilrestauri restoration firm, with the guidance of project director Emanuela Zucchetta of the Superintendency of Monuments of Venice.

For select projects, conservation dossiers in Italian containing limited textual and photographic documentation may be available for consultation by appointment at the Venice office of Save Venice and the Rosand Library & Study Center. For inquiries, please contact us at venice@savevenice.org.

Michele Sanmicheli (1484–1559)
Monumental Arch from the Lando Chapel of Sant’Antonio Abate
c. 1540s, Istrian stone