Leading the Way: A Mid-Summer Dream in Venice

A Mid-Summer Dream in Venice

Few places are as reliably romantic and intriguing as Venice. For those who want their itinerary to be just as magical, Save Venice has organized a four-day excursion to this fantasy city to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the birth of Italian architect Andrea Palladio. As is customary on the trips of this 34-year-old non-profit, activities range from the cultural to the glamorous: highlights include an organ concert in the church of San Giogio Maggiore, a lecture by Palladio expert Guido Beltramini, a “Palladio-inspired” treasure hunt (prizes will be provided by Missiaglia jewelers) and a concluding dinner and dance at Hotel Cipriani. This final event will coincide with Festa del Redentore (Feast of the Redeemer), a festival that celebrates the end of the Bubonic Plague in Venice. As per Venetian tradition, locals gather in boats in the Giudecca Canal and watch fireworks beside Palladio’s church of the Redentore, a building commissioned by the Senate in 1578 in order to give proper thanks to Christ the Redeemer; a special viewing area will be reserved for those attending the Hotel Cipriani’s dance. For a limited number of interested participants, a handful of Palladio and art history experts will lead a day-trip into Palladio’s countryside villas—including Villa Maser, Villa Emo, and Villa Cornaro—on July 15th. Gala tickets cost $4,000 ($2,000 of which is tax-deductible); $2,000 for Young Friends of Venice (ages 39 and under) and $1,000 for children (ages 16 and under). Pre-gala villa trip costs $500—book early as availability is limited.