FONDACO DEI TEDESCHI
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A remarkable building, hosting the great luxury houses, a few steps from the Rialto Bridge in Venice.
Dating back to the 13th century, it served as a trading post for merchants from the German Empire, encompassing northern Europe. Like other Venetian fondachi, it played a crucial role in the city's economic development, acting both as a meeting point for merchants and a storage center for goods. The Fondaco dei Tedeschi was the largest and one of the most profitable in the city. Its architecture reflects this function while incorporating classical Venetian elements.
After a fire in the early 16th century, the building was rebuilt in two years. Its facade on the Grand Canal was adorned with frescoes by Giorgione and Titian, now lost.
From 1870 to 2008, it also housed Venice's Central Post Office.
In 2016, Fondaco dei Tedeschi returned to its commercial vocation, becoming a 7,000 m² department store managed by DFS, a subsidiary of LVMH. Architects Rem Koolhaas and Jamie Fobert have preserved the building's heritage, while adding a contemporary touch.
The striking, square-plan building rises three storeys and houses almost 200 spaces around a courtyard with a well, offering a vast selection of luxury brands - clothing, cosmetics, spirits - as well as products from local artisans. But covid and the luxury crisis took their toll. In November 2024, DFS announced its closure for spring 2025. The future of this imposing building, a real financial challenge for potential buyers, remains uncertain to this day.
Did you know? This review was written by our professional authors.
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