The Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, a hidden gem of Venice, is a small palazzo located in a less frequented part of the city, the San Marco district. Built at the end of the 15th century by the Contarini family, one of the oldest and most important families in Venice, the palazzo is a unique blend of different architectural styles. The name "Bovolo" comes from the Venetian dialect meaning “snail shell” which describes the spiral staircase that is the highlight of the building. The staircase, designed by architect Giovanni Candi, was a later addition in the early 16th century. It spirals up 26 meters to the top, with a series of arches of varying sizes, creating a delightful sense of perspective and an optical illusion of height. The exterior of the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo is a mixture of gothic, renaissance and byzantine styles. The facade is a harmonious blend of white Istrian stone and red brick, typical of Venetian architecture of that era. The building stands five stories high, with each floor characterized by a different style—arched on the first floor, rectangular on the second, and the third featuring a loggia with columns. The interior, though not as elaborate as the exterior, is still of interest. The rooms are decorated with frescoes and stuccos and many of the original features such as the wooden beamed ceilings and terrazzo floors have been preserved. However, it is the view from the top of the staircase that is the real reward. After climbing the 80 steps, visitors are treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of Venice, including landmarks like Saint Mark’s Bell Tower, the Basilica della Salute and the rooftops of the city. The Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo remained in the Contarini family until the 19th century, when it was sold to the Municipality of Venice. After a series of restoration works, the building was opened to the public in 2016. Today, it hosts art exhibitions and concerts and is a popular spot for photography, attracting tourists and locals alike. This architectural masterpiece, with its distinctive spiral staircase and stunning views, remains an iconic symbol of Venice's rich history and architectural prowess.