revival of venice's majestic misericordia harmoniously blends history with modernity

venice’s misericordia — a historic building that forms an important part of the city’s cultural and artistic heritage — has undergone a major renovation, transforming it into an events and exhibitions venue. inaugurated in 1583, the building was one of the seven ‘scuole grandi’ (‘great schools’) of venice. however, construction work and various modification continued for another 200 years. the facility was abandoned following the fall of the venetian republic, and from the early 1800s the school was used in a range of different ways: first as a military barracks, then as a warehouse, and finally as the location of the state archives. 

the historic building forms an important part of the city’s cultural and artistic heritage
all images by alessandra chemollo

from 1914 until 1991 the misericordia was used as a sports facility, hosting both gymnastics and basketball. in 2015, alberto torsello and gruppo umana began a renovation project, which has resulted in contemporary spaces capable of hosting events, exhibitions, and meetings. the project seeks to retain the charm of the original building, while updating it for today’s requirements. divided across two levels, 26,000 square metres of space serves as the setting for a variety of installations.

the structure has undergone a major renovation, transforming it into an events and exhibitions venue

infrastructural improvements include the integration of technological services, including a sophisticated lighting system, an extensive cabling network, and a floor-based heating and cooling system separated into specific zones. furthermore, DALI (digital addressable lighting interface) technology permits remote control and management, offering the possibility of creating completely customized settings and effects.

from 1914 until 1991 the misericordia was used as a sports facility