Since the sixteenth century, the Scuola Grande has held a special place in its heart for the feast of its patron saint. During the Venetian Republic, August 16th marked the Doge’s official “andata” – a ceremonial visit to the Church and the Scuola – a tradition that became an annual fixture following the plague of 1576, when Saint Roch was named co-patron of Venice. Canaletto’s famous painting (c. 1735), now housed in the National Gallery in London, captures the splendor of these historical celebrations.
While the Doge’s visit is long since a memory, the Scuola continues to honor this deep connection to the city each year on August 16th. The traditional tendon del dose (Doge’s canopy) is erected outside, the Sala dell’Albergo is adorned with eighteenth-century decorations, and a unique festive atmosphere fills the air, culminating in religious ceremonies, charitable visits, and live music in the square.
This year’s program begins at 11:00 AM with a solemn procession from the Scuola to the Church, followed by the Pontifical Holy Mass in honor of Saint Roch. Liturgical music will be performed by the Choir of the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, directed by Zoya Tukhmanova Karapetyan, with Alessandro Baglioni on the organ.
In the afternoon, from 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM), visitors can explore the Scuola Grande for a nominal contribution of €2, with all proceeds donated to charity.
Rounding out the day’s celebrations at 8:30 PM is an outdoor concert in the square titled “Leo e gli altri tre – La scuola cantautorale italiana” (admission by invitation).
