Fondaco dei Turchi (Natural History Museum)
The grand palazzo now known as the Fondaco dei Turchi was built in the 13th century, one of the largest and earliest along the Grand Canal. It became the home of the duke of Ferrara, and then, in the 17th century, the magnificent ballrooms became warehouse space for Turkish merchants. After centuries of decay, John Ruskin rallied the city to begin conservation of this landmark.The building now serves as the Museum of Natural History. The best exhibits here focus on the marine life of the surrounding Veneto lagoons, although there are some interesting dinosaur skeletons stalking about as well.
Address:
Canal Grande, Santa Croce, 1730
Venice
Italy
Telephone: +39 (41) 524-0885