Church of Santa Corona (Vicenza): Complete Guide 2026

At a Glance (for those in a hurry)

• Founded in 1261 by the Dominican Order to house the relic of the Holy Thorn, donated by Louis IX of France.

• Must-see masterpieces: Giovanni Bellini, Baptism of Christ; Paolo Veronese, Adoration of the Magi.

• Valmarana Chapel: a small jewel designed by Andrea Palladio (c. 1576).

• Opening hours 2025: Tuesday–Sunday 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (last entry 5:30 PM). Closed on Mondays. Saturday and pre-holiday Mass at 5:30 PM.

• Single ticket: €3.00 (reduced €2.00; schools €1.00). Check for updates before visiting.

Why Visit

The Church of Santa Corona is one of Vicenza’s must-see landmarks: a Gothic interior enriched with Renaissance masterpieces, a strong devotional identity linked to the Holy Thorn, and the precious Valmarana Chapel—an authentic Palladian treasure.

A Bit of History

• 1261: the Dominicans begin construction to house the relic of the Holy Thorn.

• Over time, the monastic complex develops; today the former convent houses the Natural History and Archaeological Museum.

• Andrea Palladio was buried here in 1580 (his remains were later transferred to the main cemetery in the 19th century).

Main Masterpieces

• Giovanni Bellini, Baptism of Christ (1501–1503): poetic landscape and chromatic harmony.

• Paolo Veronese, Adoration of the Magi (1573): an altarpiece rich in narrative detail.

• Valmarana Chapel (c. 1576): a jewel-like architectural space by Andrea Palladio, inspired by classical antiquity.

Opening Hours 2025

Opening: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Last entry: 5:30 PM
Closed: Monday
Religious service: Saturday and pre-holidays at 5:30 PM (free entry)

Tickets

• Church of Santa Corona (single ticket): €3.00

• Reduced ticket: €2.00

• Schools: €1.00

Note: opening hours and prices may change without notice; always check official channels (Civic Museums / IAT Vicenza).

Distance from Ostello Olimpico di Vicenza

• Ostello Olimpico di Vicenza: Viale Antonio Giuriolo 7/9, 36100 Vicenza

• Church of Santa Corona: Contrà Santa Corona 2 (historic center)

• Walking distance: approx. 3–6 minutes (≈ 250–450 m), flat route through the city center.

• Tip: a short “essential” visit (about 15 minutes) focusing on Bellini’s painting, the Valmarana Chapel, and Veronese’s altarpiece.

Practical Information

• Last entry 30 minutes before closing.

• During Saturday/pre-holiday Mass (5:30 PM), tourist access is limited—please respect the religious service.

• Useful contacts: IAT Vicenza +39 0444 320854 — Civic Museums of Vicenza (booking/info).

The Holy Thorn: Where It Is Today

The precious relic of the Holy Thorn is linked to an ancient reliquary from Santa Corona; tradition now associates it with the Diocesan Museum of Vicenza. It is recommended to check locally for exhibition times.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?

Generally no for individual visitors; groups and schools should follow Civic Museums/IAT guidelines.

What should I not miss in 15 minutes?

Bellini’s Baptism of Christ, the Valmarana Chapel, and Veronese’s altarpiece.

Is it an active church?

Yes. In addition to museum opening hours, Mass is celebrated on Saturdays and pre-holidays at 5:30 PM.