Ca' Foscari - Architectural Features

Architectural Features

Ca' Foscari is a typical example of the residence of the Venetian nobles and merchants. The ground floor was used as storeroom; the first and second floors were used as residence and place for parties and they are called "piani nobili" .The central arcades of the second floor are closely modelled on the façade loggia of the Doge's Palace. The great central window arcades light the huge halls behind, flanked by side wings of smaller rooms lit by single windows. The structure is one of the most imposing buildings of the city and its external courtyard is the biggest courtyard of a private house after the one of the Doge's Palace. The main entrance was the one on the canal because commerce on water was the most important activity in Venice and because the main routes were on water; that's why the façade on the water side is always more beautiful and decorated than the one on the street. This façade overlooking the Grand Canal is characterized by a rhythmic sequence of arches and windows; this style, emulated throughout the city, can be identified through its use of pointed arches and carved window heads. On the top of every single column we can find the quatrefoil patterns; the gothic capitals are adorned with foliage, animals and faces. On the top of the gothic window there's also a marble frieze with a helmet surmounted with a spread lion which reminds the role of the doge as the captain of the republic; at each side of the central helmet we can find two putti holding a shield which represents the Foscari's coat of arms with the winged lion, symbol of Venice.