BASILICA OF THE FRIARS, Interior

The Frari Basilica was the first church in Venice to charge an entrance fee, which is why you most likely came in from the left side. In any case, go to the very beginning of the central nave to get an idea of the entire church's general structure.

The first impression that you'll probably get is of a bright church that's also rather austere. The three naves are marked by twelve tall and mighty cylindrical columns, which are a clear symbolic reference to the number of Apostles. The edges of the arches are terracotta, and you can appreciate the pleasant contrast with the light plaster that gives a warm tone to the vastness of the church. The vertical thrust of the Gothic architecture is attenuated by wooden beams connecting the arches.

You may have noticed an unmistakable element at the end of the central nave: the large choir of the friars, which is the set of carved seats within the large stone enclosure decorated with bas-reliefs. Its opening in the center above the high altar proudly displays the magnificent altarpiece by Titian, the Assumption of the Virgin....