Steeped in history, the Santa Maria della Salute church in Venice is a prime example of Baroque architecture. Constructed between 1631 and 1687, the church was a votive offering for the city"s deliverance from a devastating plague in 1630. Built at the entrance to the Grand Canal, its dome dominates the Venice skyline, as seen in today"s image. Italian architect Baldassare Longhena envisioned this structure at the age of 26, and it became his lifelong project, which was completed after his death. The exterior of the church, with its volutes—spiral, scroll-like ornaments and statues contrasts with the spacious octagonal interior adorned with works by Renaissance artists like Titian and Tintoretto. Each November, Venice commemorates the church"s significance during the Festa della Madonna della Salute, a cultural celebration that includes festive processions and offering of candles in gratitude for deliverance from the plague.
Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, Venice, Italy
Today in History
More Desktop Wallpapers:
-
Blending in nicely
-
World Oceans Day
-
Bản Giốc – Detian Falls, Vietnam
-
International Archaeology Day
-
Where is this scenic view?
-
Madame Sherri Forest, New Hampshire, United States
-
Don’t look down!
-
Russell lupines, Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
-
A sea of humanity
-
Independence Day of the Bahamas
-
Angry bird, doting dad
-
Macaroni penguins
-
Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA
-
The Isle of Wight Garlic Festival
-
A kiss and a sigh
-
Happy Fat Tuesday!
-
Six Nations Championship
-
International Tea Day
-
The worlds most exclusive beach?
-
Regal Radiance
-
Last night of the Proms
-
Perfect, pastoral Palouse
-
Reflecting the beauty of the Lakes
-
Giant panda
-
Puffins pucker up
-
A braided river
-
Icon of the Highlands
-
Dunquin Pier, County Kerry, Ireland
-
Last Night of the Proms
-
Bryce Canyon hoodoos in winter