The Carampane District: Venice’s Spicy Past

From the Rampani… to the Carampane

It all began around 1319 when the last descendant of the noble Rampani family passed away. The ever-opportunistic Serenissima took over their buildings and decided to put them to rather… unique use. The government was exasperated by the presence of prostitutes all over the city at any time of the day or night. Their solution? Concentrate them in a single district and regulate their activities.

How Did It Work?

One detail that may seem bizarre today: prostitutes would lean out of first-floor windows to display their “goods” to passersby (or rather, potential clients). If today’s most coveted shop windows are in luxury shopping streets, back then, the Ponte delle Tette was the prime advertising space!

But the Serenissima left nothing to chance and imposed strict rules:

• Prostitutes were not allowed to leave the district where they lived and worked.

• Every evening, at the sound of the third bell, they had to return home—anyone caught outside risked ten lashes.

• Visiting taverns and working on religious holidays was strictly forbidden (even for them, Sundays were a day of rest!).

• Saturday was the only day they could go into the city center, but only if they wore a distinctive sign—usually a yellow garment—so that everyone knew their profession.

When Venice Encouraged the World’s Oldest Profession

In the 16th century, the Venetian government faced a new “problem”: the rise of homosexuality, which, according to the authorities, could damage the city’s reputation. Their solution? Promote prostitution! Forget modern marketing—the Serenissima actively encouraged the trade to provide young men with a more “acceptable” alternative in line with social expectations of the time.

What About Today?

Today, the Carampane district is far from scandalous—it’s actually a peaceful, authentic neighborhood where many Venetians live. If you pass by, I highly recommend stopping at the restaurant Le Antiche Carampane, a traditional osteria where you can enjoy delicious Venetian cuisine, far from the tourist crowds.

Venice has countless layers, and this episode of its history proves just how lively and extraordinary the city was even centuries ago. Who knows what other secrets still lie hidden in its alleys…

And you, did you already know this story? 😏