There are places in Venice that seem made to be experienced slowly, perhaps sharing silence and glances. San Giorgio Maggiore is one of them: a compact, luminous island just beyond St Mark’s Square. Until 22 February 2026, the island becomes even more compelling thanks to a contemporary illuminated manuscript created by Luc Tuymans.
The Abbey of San Giorgio Maggiore: a dialogue between eras
The project takes shape inside the Abbey of San Giorgio Maggiore, one of the most elegant and harmonious places of Palladian Venice. Tuymans’ manuscript is placed on the wooden lectern of the badalone, at the centre of the choir of the high altar.
An art that invites you to slow down
Luc Tuymans is known for a form of painting that works with memory and its ambiguities. The work does not demand specific knowledge, but attention.
Reaching the island: a short journey on the water
Getting to San Giorgio Maggiore is easy, yet meaningful. Just a few minutes by vaporetto from St Mark’s Square are enough to find yourself facing a different Venice.
The bell tower: one of Venice’s most moving views
The visit finds a natural conclusion in the ascent of the Bell Tower, offering a broad, balanced view over the city.
Another Venice to take with you
If you are thinking of spending time in Venice during this period, you can book directly here and shape your time in the city according to the rhythm that suits you best.
