Palazzo Correr Contarini Zorzi

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Palazzo Correr Contarini Zorzi is a Renaissance palace on the Grand Canal in Venice’s Cannaregio district. It stands between Palazzo Querini Papozze and Palazzo Gritti and is often called Ca' dei Cuori because the iron coats of arms of its owners decorate the façade.

Built in 1678 on the site of an older Gothic house (only the corner columns remain), the palazzo was home to several noble families: first the Correr, then the Soranzo, Zorzi, and Contarini families. One famous resident was Antonio Correr, known for refusing to wear a wig, once a symbol of noble status. In the 20th century it was owned by the de Mombell family, who added the terrace on the façade. It has recently been renovated.

Architecturally, the palace has a striking 17th‑century façade with two large water entrances topped by bow-shaped decorations. The openings on those portals are matched by square windows on the upper floors, giving a strong sense of symmetry. The building has four levels and two noble floors of equal importance and design. Windows on the floors include triple-light openings with small balconies offset to the left and paired windows on the right. The façade uses horizontal bands of Istrian stone to emphasize balance, and ends with a white balustrade that frames a wide roof terrace, supported by a dentilled cornice. Inside, there are neoclassical frescoes.