Tolentini is the abode of the faculty of architecture's (IUAV) library. It is close to the railway station, easy to reach and visit.
I have spent most of my time in this place since I arrived in Venice. Here I have passed hours studying, chatting, listening to conferences...
The edifice was built between 1599 and 1602 by monks of the Teatini's order; then, after that it was a monastery, a barracks and a shelter. In 1958 it became the library of the IUAV University.
The building has a large cloister with a beautiful pit in the middle, surrounded by a continuous arcade. All the first floor, which in the past hosted cells for monks, is now housing library rooms, while at the ground floor there is a small bar that replaces part of the old dining hall.
All outside spaces are beautiful, starting from the entrance, designed by Italian architect Carlo Scarpa.
Climbing plants cover the walls that enclose the cloister which is the perfect place to discuss projects and plan lectures as well as take a rest from studying, enjoy the sun or refresh yourself under the trees in the second courtyard. At the end of spring, the university bar's owners organize a weekly aperitif (on Wednesday) open to everybody that always has a lot of success.
Tolentini library is the place to share the everyday life of IUAV students and discover some beautiful architectural jewel out of the touristic routes.
Find your way with 95 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Carlo Scarpa" is La Serenissima's most famous modern designer. Many of his works evoke the sensation of water lapping over edges around Venice...
by
"Ca' Bembo" is a referent point for Venice. It's an occupied palace that has become a free cultural and relaxation space right in the center!
by
"Torrefazione Cannaregio" is the place I choose to get my first dose of caffeine for the day! Even the pickiest Venetian is satisfied at this shop!
by
"Da Luca e Fred" is a small Osteria just a few steps away from the Railway Station of Venice. I like going to this bar / restaurant for the Aperitif.
by
"Orsoni Furnace" is the only mosaic tile furnace still functioning in the historic center of Venice. It has revived the city's Byzantine mosaic production...
by
"San Francesco del Deserto" in Venice is a little monastery and chapel located near Burano and Torcelio. You can only get there with a private boat...
by
"VizioVirtù Cioccolateria" Venice is a fantastic chocolate shop I discovered recently while I was walking around...
by
"Lio Piccolo" in Venice is the perfect place to go on a summer day when the heat is too much to take. I love going there by bike and used to do so daily!
by
"Magna Bevi Tasi" is a typical Venice 'baccaro' where you can have an aperitif or drink. I like to sit outside on a nice sunny day, enjoying my spritz...
by
"Campiello Remer" in Venice is the best place to have an aperitivo in the center of the city. This beautiful place does have a spooky legend...
by
"Pasticceria Rosa Salva" in Venice is a bakery that uses the highest quality of ingredients. I love coming here during festivals like the Carnival...
by
"Birreria Forst" is a restaurant just behind Saint Mark's square in Venice. It's a historical, rustic locale. I like that gondoliers come here for breaks!
by
95 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 95 Insider Tips