THE ARSENALE

During the period of the Serenissima it was one of the largest and most productive shipyards in Europe. It was founded around 1220, and underwent various extensions until the sixteenth century when it covered more than 32 hectars, enclosed by kilometres of high crenellated walls and towers.

More than 16,000 workers were employed there (called "Arsenalotti") and together they formed a sort of production line so that they were actually able to turn out a ship a day. The hull was made in the New Arsenal, the rudder and ammunition were added in the New Darsena (shipyard); the trees, sails, rigging and the shrouds in the Old Darsena and lastly, the oars, crew and provisions went on board. Everything was produced and stored in this formidable industrial centre.

The great gateway in the shape of an arch of triumph (Porta di Terra) is by Antonio Gambello (1460). The two lions on either side of the steps were sent to Venice from Athens by Francesco Morosini as a war trophy. The one on the left bears the runic inscription that is evidence of the Scandinavian mercenaries who fought for the Byzantine emperor at Pireo in the eleventh century.

Today, most of the area has been abandoned and neglected. It is possible to ask the Military Authorities for permission to visit.

The Corderie (the old rope factories) - by A. Da Ponte (1583) houses art exhibitions.