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Campo dei Mori: Myths and Stories to Experience Together

A quiet corner of Cannaregio where legend, art, and history meet

Tucked away among the lesser-known streets of Cannaregio, surrounded by stone houses and peaceful alleys, lies the Campo dei Mori—a small square full of charm and legend.
For a young, curious couple, it’s the perfect stop for a slow walk, among mysterious stories, sculptural details, and carved symbols, in a still and timeless atmosphere that invites imagination and observation.

Easily reachable on foot from Hotel Alle Guglie, Campo dei Mori offers a quiet escape: an open-air pause, far from the tourist crowds, where every corner tells a story.

A square that speaks through stone

The name “Campo dei Mori” refers to three stone statues built into the facades of buildings around the square. According to tradition, they represent three wealthy Eastern merchants—Rioba, Sandi, and Afani—who lived in 14th-century Venice.
Legend says they were cursed for their greed and turned to stone, left as a warning for generations to come.

The most famous of the statues is Sior Antonio Rioba, recognizable by his iron nose. Over time, he became a symbol of satire and free speech, much like Rome’s “Bocca della Verità.”
In the past, locals would place anonymous letters in his mouth—mocking the powerful or denouncing injustice.

A place for imagination and discovery

Visiting Campo dei Mori isn’t just about looking at statues. It’s a poetic exploration, where every stone seems to hide a message, and every detail invites storytelling.
It’s a wonderful spot for couples who love to walk, observe, and imagine together.

Next to the statues, you’ll see a building with an Arabic-style relief and other mysterious carvings on the walls—remnants of Venice’s old trade routes and multicultural past.

What’s nearby

Just a few steps away is the house of Tintoretto, the great 16th-century Venetian painter. While not open to visitors, the building still features its original facade and offers a glimpse into the daily life of one of Venice’s greatest artists.

Also nearby is Calle Larga, which leads from the square to the Fondamenta della Misericordia—a great little path for a hand-in-hand walk, passing by shops, galleries, and canals.

How to get there from Hotel Alle Guglie

Campo dei Mori is about a 10-minute walk from our hotel. Head northeast through Cannaregio, along shaded fondamenta, stone bridges, and photo-worthy corners.
At reception, we’ll be happy to provide you with a printed map highlighting all the spots along the way.

When to go

The best times to visit Campo dei Mori are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the angled light highlights the statues and silence adds depth to the experience.
It’s a place meant to be enjoyed slowly, without distractions.

At Hotel Alle Guglie, we love recommending places that enrich your stay in real ways. Campo dei Mori is one of them: small, silent, symbolic. A space to share thoughts, look around, and enjoy something unexpected—far from the obvious.