Fondaco dei Turchi

The Palazzo del Fondaco dei Turchi, built in the 13th century commissioned by Giacomo Palmieri, consul of the municipality of Pesaro, has a rich history. In 1381, the Most Serene Republic of Venice acquired it to give it to Niccolò II d'Este as a recognition for his support during the war of Chioggia. In 1509, the Este family lost ownership of the palace when the Republic confiscated it from Alfonso I d'Este and donated it to Pope Julius II. Over time, it passed several times between the Este family, Pope Leo X, and others.

Since 1608, the idea of dedicating the palace to Turkish merchants was conceived, materializing in 1621 and lasting until the 19th century. In 1860, the Municipality of Venice acquired it, restoring it to house the Correr Museum, which later became the Civic Museum of Natural History of Venice since 1923. The structure, renovated between 1869 and 1919, preserves elements of the fondaco and the Veneto-Byzantine style of the 13th century. The facade features a ground floor with round arches and a loggia with smaller arches. Added by Federico Berchet, two towers and battlements complete the look. The rooms overlook a central courtyard with a portico on the ground floor.