Arsenale

Site Description

The origin of the collection of shipyards and workshops dates back to the 12th century. These buildings constituted the heart of the war and naval industry that contributed to the maritime expansion of the Serenissima. The first nucleus of the Arsenale Vecchio was built in an area behind St. Mark’s basin, strategically positioned for reasons of defence and accessibility to the wood supply needed for shipbuilding. Closely linked to the economic development of the city, the area would be continually modified over the centuries according to the technological changes in industry and the changing demands of the Maritime Republic and commercial transport. With the end of the Republic in 1797, the Arsenal began its slow decline due to the inability to update production and the increasingly difficult coexistence between production activities and the historic centre. To enhance the touristic and cultural dimension of the site the presence of the Navy and some shipbuilding activities would remain in the Old Arsenal to the west, while entrusting the restoration and conversion of the south-eastern part to the Venice Biennale with its exhibition and administrative spaces.

Site Opportunities

Could a project explore the significant cultural value of the site inc. the wider Arsenale precinct via the recovery, restoration or reuse of the test of the Galeazze and the Nappe (on the northern border of the Darsena Nuovissima), a redevelopment of the external spaces, and a rethinking of access to the area?