Santo Stefano’s Campanile

The campanile of Santo Stefano

A stop on the Venice audio-guided tour, the campanile of Santo Stefano rises to sixty-one metres. Adjoining the church of the same name, its origins go back to the twelfth century, but its current appearance is much more recent.

A leaning campanile

In the fifteenth century, the building suffered a terrible fire: the upper cell was destroyed and the bells entirely melted. Fortunately, four new bells from England were obtained by monks to serve again the musical functions of the campanile. The slightly leaning bell tower is one of the characteristic silhouettes of Venice.

What to see

After the fire, the vanished clock also had to be replaced, and the city's lawyers, attached to punctuality, played a role in this story. Observe with respect this campanile, a witness to the religious and daily history of the district, on the peaceful Campo Santo Stefano.

Practical information

The campanile of Santo Stefano stands on Campo Santo Stefano, in the San Marco district, near the church of the same name. It can be viewed freely from the square.

What is special about the campanile of Santo Stefano ?

It is slightly leaning, one of the characteristic silhouettes of Venice.

Where do the campanile's bells come from ?

Four bells from England, obtained by monks after the fifteenth-century fire.