The Church of San Tomà, named after the Apostle Thomas, is located on the campo of the same name in the San Polo district – a quiet place with a surprisingly rich history and baroque splendor, often overlooked by the crowds of tourists.
🕰️ Historical Overview
Origins: A church existed here as early as the 10th century, originally dedicated to Saints Sergius and Bacchus.
Reorientation: The church was reoriented and expanded in 1395.
Baroque Reconstruction:
1652: Giuseppe Sardi created the current Baroque façade based on a design by Baldassare Longhena.
1742: Francesco Bognolo reinforced the foundations and added sculptures to the façade.
🏛️ Architecture & Art
Façade:
Classical-Baroque with a tympanum.
Sculpture group of the Incredulity of the Apostle Thomas by Francesco Cabianca.
Flanked by figures of Saint Peter and Saint James.
Interior:
Originally three naves, now greatly reduced.
Frescoes by Jacopo Guarana (Martyrdom of Saint Thomas)
Altarpiece The Incredulity of St. Thomas by Antonio Zanchi
Earlier works by Andrea Vicentino and Palma Vecchio, now largely removed
Exterior wall:
Sarcophagus of the Venetian senator and war hero Giovanni Priuli (14th century) – with a small dog at his feet
Relief of the Madonna della Misericordia (15th century) above a side portal