Porta Magna van het Venetiaans Arsenaal 1610

This 1610 engraving by an anonymous artist depicts the “Porta Magna” of the Venetian Arsenal. The artwork shows a large archway with columns and a winged lion of St. Mark, the patron saint of Venice, above. The etching is detailed and includes a crowd of figures in the foreground, suggesting the busy and active nature of this important entranceway. The “Porta Magna” served as the main entrance to the Venetian Arsenal, a large shipyard and military complex that played a vital role in the city's maritime power and defense. This artwork offers a glimpse into the grandeur and strategic importance of the Arsenal in 17th century Venice.