Street Altar

This page contains information about a typical Venetian street altar.

For a list of street altars, see Street altars.

Venice is the home of over 100 street altars, which are throughout the streets of Venice and the Lagoon (PreserVenice). Also known as the Madonnelle, street altars date as far back as ancient Rome, though their meaning and significance changed across centuries. Today, they are religious shrines that are publicly displayed in urban areas, along streets, and in significant outdoor spaces. They predominantly depict the Virgin Mary; however, some display art of other saints and religious figures. 

Notable Components

Many of the street altars are found in or around neighborhoods. As these are places of prayer and worship, there are different components to them. The majority of them include flowers, real or fake; candles or a light source; a picture, relief or sculpture of a significant, religious figure; and a gate or door that opens for access into the altar.