The magnificent, domed church of Salute was built by decree to commemorate a great plague which lasted for two years, from 1630-31. The city was delivered thanks to the intercession of the Virgin Mary and each November the event is remembered in a special service and celebrations. A votive bridge is erected from San Marco to the long arm of Dorsoduro on which the Salute is situated. A temporary pontoon, it allows thousands of townsfolk and visitors to cross the water on the day, to give thanks at the church and to light a candle for good health. On the day of the Madonna della Salute the people of Venice prepare a customary dish of castradina, from a traditional mutton-based recipe.

Times
All day.