Since 1895, the Venice Biennale has set standards in promoting contemporary art and culture to a wide audience. An international pace-setter, this prestigious institution manages and promotes artistic programmes, including the Venice International Film Festival, the International Art Exhibition, the International Architecture Exhibition, a festival of contemporary music and festivals of theatre and of dance. Most of these are regarded as world class events in their own right. Through programmes of workshops, concerts, exhibitions and performances, the Venice Biennale has attracted worldwide acclaim as well as occasionally provoking controversy. Various venues are used for the Biennale and there is a permanent site at the Giardini Publicci, where many countries maintain their own pavilions, and where a thematic international exhibition is also held. In even-numbered years, this site is used for the biennial Architecture Exhibition, where many of the world's leading architects display their skills and visions.

Times
Various.