The Arsenal of Venice, also known as the Arsenale di Venezia, is a historic shipyard and naval depot in the Castello district of Venice, Italy. It sits in the eastern part of the city, at Castello 2737/F, and was the working heart of the Venetian maritime empire, the place where the ships that carried the republic's trade and power were built and supplied.
What to expect
Visiting the Arsenal is a chance to walk through a site that once shaped the city's fortunes. Its long walls, waterways and yards give a clear sense of how large and organised the operation was. Today part of the complex is used for the Venice Biennale, so a visit can also bring you face to face with contemporary art set within this historic setting.
- A heritage site tied to Venice's naval and maritime past
- Exhibition spaces linked to the Venice Biennale
- An easy walk from other parts of Castello
Planning your visit
The Arsenal works well as part of a day spent in eastern Venice, where the quieter streets of Castello offer a slower pace than the city's main sights. Because parts of the site are used for exhibitions, what is open can depend on the season and on the Biennale programme, so it is worth checking the current arrangements before you go. For more information you can call +39 041 521 8711.