The beauty of the Canova Temple

Dear Travelers

I'm pleased to share with you some photos I took a few weeks ago when I happened to pass through Possagno, the birthplace in the province of Treviso of Antonio Canova, one of the most important architects of the early 19th century. I was finally able to admire his beautiful Canova temple in person, a building designed by the architect himself. The cornerstone was even laid in his presence, but unfortunately, he never had the opportunity to see this finished work.

Let's just say that looking at these photos I took, you can see the similarity to the Roman Pantheon. In fact, the dome is somewhat reminiscent of this building, precisely because Antonio Canova was a huge fan of the neoclassical style and therefore made several trips to Rome, and in fact, stayed in Rome several times, where he studied the various buildings.

I must say that photos don't convey the grandeur and majesty of this place. I'd already seen photos of it some time ago, but seeing it in person is a completely different experience, I must say.

In reality, there's no other part. The prona, or exterior, is somewhat reminiscent of the Parthenon in Athens, and finally, the apse with the altar inside represents the most Christian part, because this was actually intended to be Canova's tomb, but in reality it later became a church that is still used today for various celebrations.

One thing I've read on the various information boards inside this temple is that it was entirely financed by Antonio Canova, while the community essentially volunteered the labor to build this mammoth work.

The Canova temple in Possagno can be visited practically every day except Mondays. Free admission, but during religious celebrations, tourists are not allowed in, and this is a fairly normal thing that happens almost everywhere. I haven't been there, but I've been told it's very beautiful. You can go all the way up to the dome, where you can see the view. You basically pay €3 to get there. Occasionally, on Saturdays and Sundays during holidays, guided tours are organized by local guides, so you only need to pay a contribution, which I think is around €4.

To get to the Canovian temple, exit at Vicenza Nord and continue towards Possagno. There are large parking lots there to leave your car. The town is connected by bus to the main nearby towns such as Bassano del Grappa, Treviso, and Castelfranco Veneto. By train, the closest train station is Pederobba Cavaso or Bassano del Grappa. From there, you'll always have to continue by bus, as unfortunately, there are no stations nearby.

I hope I've provided you with all the information you need to visit this place. Trust me, it's definitely worth it because it's truly unique and unlike anything you'll find anywhere else in the world.

Have a great day, and see you soon.

official site