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A romantic proposal at sunset exploring the hidden Venice in the Castello sestiere
As a photographer in Venice, I have the privilege of witnessing some of life’s most beautiful moments. One of the most unforgettable this year happened in October, on a golden autumn afternoon in the heart of the city. The light was perfect—soft, warm, and glowing—when Phil got down on one knee to propose to his girlfriend in the middle of Campo Santi Giovanni e Paolo.
This square, one of Venice’s most historic and atmospheric, is nestled in the Castello sestiere, a quieter, more authentic part of the city. Castello is known for its timeless charm, where locals still greet each other in the streets and life flows at a gentler pace. At Campo Santi Giovanni e Paolo, you’re surrounded by grand architecture, including the majestic church of the same name, and a canal where gondolas gently pass by—Venice at its cinematic best.
Phil chose the perfect moment. As the sun began to set and cast golden reflections on the canal, he presented a ring to his completely surprised partner. Her reaction was pure emotion—tears, laughter, and a heartfelt “yes.”
After the proposal, we wandered through the area to capture their joy in the soft evening light. We visited Campo dei Miracoli, a small, peaceful square with unique charm and delicate beauty. The couple stood on bridges framed by softly rippling water and ancient stone, Venice revealing its romantic soul at every turn.
Just engaged and celebrating at one of the most romantic restaurants in Venice
Our session ended at one of the most romantic restaurants in the city—Ai Barbacani. Nestled in the Castello sestiere, this intimate restaurant is renowned for its traditional Venetian cuisine and enchanting atmosphere. Housed in a historic building that once served as a coal depot, Ai Barbacani retains its rustic charm with exposed beams and barbacani—shelves extending from the walls that allowed upper floors to be larger than the ground level. The restaurant’s philosophy, “complex simplicity,” reflects in both its decor and its culinary offerings.
Ai Barbacani is particularly celebrated for its seafood-focused menu, featuring dishes like Venetian fish soup, bigoli with anchovies, and scampi tails “in saor” . For a truly unforgettable experience, couples can reserve the exclusive canal-side table, offering a serene setting to enjoy a meal while watching gondolas drift by.
Capturing this proposal was not just a professional assignment—it was a reminder of why I love photographing love stories in Venice. This city, with its layers of history, beauty, and emotion, offers the perfect backdrop for memories that will last a lifetime.
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