Punta della Dogana

The Punta della Dogana

A stop on the Venice audio-guided tour, the Punta della Dogana marks the tip of the Dorsoduro district. In the fifteenth century, ships had to moor there to undergo the inspection of the customs office.

From customs to museum

If everything was in order, the chain that barred the canal was raised and the boats could reach the commercial centre of the city, around the Rialto. Rebuilt in the seventeenth century to harmonise with the nearby basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, the customs buildings changed function in June 2009.

What to see

Like the Grassi Palace, the Punta della Dogana is today an exhibition space acquired by the French collector Francois Pinault, dedicated to modern and contemporary art. Its position, at the tip between the Grand Canal and the Giudecca canal, offers an exceptional view of the lagoon.

Practical information

The Punta della Dogana is at the tip of the Dorsoduro district, in Venice. Opening days, hours and prices should be checked depending on the season with the site.

What was the function of the Punta della Dogana ?

The inspection of ships by the customs office before their entry into the commercial centre of Venice.

What does the Punta della Dogana hold today ?

An exhibition space for modern and contemporary art from the Pinault collection.