San Geremia Church, Venice

San Geremia in Venice carries the name of the prophet Jeremiah. The church was built in the 11th century. Today it is a significant religious center located on the waterfront of the Grand Canal in the Cannaregio district. It is also very close to the central railway station.

History of San Geremia

The church was founded by Mauro and Bartolomeo Tosello. It was supposed to serve as a place where the relics – hands, to be exact – of St. Bartholomew would be stored which were brought from Puglia in 1043. In 1174, the basilica was damaged by fire and restored by order of Sebastiano Ziani, the Doge of Venice. The church’s design that can be seen today has been preserved since 1760. Its reconstruction was led by the architect Carlo Corbellini. Then the fire happened again. In 1849, during the bombing of the city by the Austrians, the church was damaged once more. A thorough reconstruction was held in 1871.

The church keeps the remains of St. Lucius which were brought to Venice in 1204 from Constantinople. This is the main treasure of the temple. Saint’s face is covered by a silver mask.

On the basilica’s facade, you can read the inscription: “Lucia Vergine di Siracusa rests in peace in this temple. You inspire a bright future and peace to Italy and the entire World." In 1981, the whole population of Venice was shaken up by the theft of the remains of Lucius. For the return of the holy relics, criminals demanded a reward. After some time, the remains were miraculously returned to the temple with the help of the police.

Inside the church

Besides St. Lucia, the relics of other saints, such as St. Bartholomew, Mary Magdalene and St. Thomas are kept in the church as well.

Inside San Geremia there are sculptures and canvases by famous masters – Pietro Antonio Novelli, Palma Giovane, Giovanni Mingardi and Sebastiano Santi.

How to get

San Geremia can be reached by water bus vaporetto that you should take to the Ferrovia stop. It also takes around five minutes to get here from the central railway station.

Opening hours: the church welcomes visitors every day. It is open from Monday to Saturday from 08:30 to 12:00 and from 15:30 to 18:30. On Sundays – from 09:30 to 12:15.

Admission: free.