For centuries, Venice has been a main European trade center and has taken influences from places like the Middle East and others throughout the continent. This cosmopolitan city's architecture has been affected with a mixture of its influences.

Ca' d'Oro was constructed during the 15th century and resides next to the main waterway of the town, the Grand Canal. After the mid 1400's it served as home to the Contarini family who were one of the quasi-noble and respected families of the area. The family gave 8 of its number as Doges to Venice between the years of 1043 and 1676.

Decorated in a pink and white facade along with remnants of past gold leafing (which gave the building its name), is a gothic style Venetian classic. With arches of the Byzantine style that are pointed, and carved posts that elaborately bear capitals, the building has only a small resemblance to the Greek. A popular architect of the time period named Giovanni Bon created the floral-like designs found throughout.

Located on the ground floor is the entrance, where it is accessible from the canal level in the colonnaded loggia. An enclosed balcony can be found above the entrance which is located on the upper floor and close to the art gallery which offers very impressive views.

A sense of peace can be found outside of the bustling city at the inner courtyard, as long as it's not at a time when many visitors are crowding the area. The Vera di pozzo, known also as the wellhead, is an interesting sight to enjoy when relaxing in the courtyard.

In one room 16th century Flemish tapestries can be found. In another room a collection of 12th through 16th century bronzes are on display, and nearly every time period tells a story through the furniture found on the premises.

Paintings found in the world famous Gallerie dell'Accademia are good examples of the kind of quality that can be found here. By Titian, "Venus at the Mirror" can be found as well as Manegna's "San Sebastiano". Other gorgeous paintings displayed are by Giorgione, Carpaccio and Tintoretto among others. Impressively, Van Dyke and Jan Steel made it possible for Dutch artwork to make it to Venice.

The Grand Canal offers a breathtaking view from the balcony outside the upper floor. A close up view of the windows with intricately carved quatrefoil shouldn't be missed, and the polychrome marble incrustations are so impressive, many find it worth a second look.

From this part of the gallery, it is easy to gain access to a room filled with intricate ceramics. Fit for the richest of the 15th century in Venice, kitchenware such as cups and plates can be viewed, offering the sense of what life was like during this time period for the wealthy.

The Gold House in Ca' d'Oro won't disappoint those looking for a treasure in Venice.