General Information
The Venetian Arsenal is a complex of former shipyards and armouries in the city of Venice, Italy. Construction of the Arsenal began in 1104 and continued over many years during the era of the Venetian Republic. The area was once the biggest industrial space in the world and contained buildings where ships were produced for the Venetian Republics Naval fleet as well as ships to trade. The Venetian Arsenal was protected by high walls and many armed guards, such was the importance of the area which generated so much of the city's wealth until the fall of the republic in the late 18th century.
Getting there
If you are not staying in Venice then one public transport travel option is to board a ferry to the city, the complex is situated close to multiple ferry terminals and is a 5-minute walk from the major terminals. Another option is to catch a train to Venice’s local train station which is a 10 minute walk away. If you are already in Venice then the most common way to get to the complex is on foot.
Opening Times and Admission
The Venetian Arsenal is a restricted area as the buildings are used by the Italian Army. However, there are some areas the general public can visit such as the Naval Museum and the cultural spaces created within the complex.