URBS SCRIPTA in Venice: festival of historic graffiti with tours

URBS SCRIPTA in Venice: a festival for historic graffiti

From 14 to 17 May 2026, Venice hosts the fourth edition of URBS SCRIPTA, a festival dedicated to historical graffiti carved into palaces, churches and public spaces. The event highlights names, dates and symbols left over centuries by sailors, prisoners, workers and residents.

The festival opens on Thursday 14 May at 6:00 PM at Ca' Flangini with an inaugural talk. The program combines offerings for history enthusiasts and families, with specific provisions for inclusive access.

Program highlights

• Guided tours at iconic sites including the Doge's Palace, the Arsenal, St Mark's Basilica, the church of San Martino and the Lazzaretto Nuovo, featuring restored graffiti insights.
• Educational workshops for children and adults to learn how to read and preserve historical inscriptions.
• Tria tournament, a historical game similar to tic-tac-toe, offered as a practical demonstration of local gaming traditions.
• Treasure hunt among the calli: an interactive route to locate graffiti and discover their stories.
• Inclusive routes for blind visitors and guided visits in sign language to ensure cultural accessibility.

URBS SCRIPTA offers a fresh perspective on Venice's monuments: beyond architecture, the city's surfaces reveal layers of personal and collective memory. Activities are suitable for diverse audiences and propose multiple ways to engage with urban heritage.

Check the official event schedule for detailed programs and booking information, or contact local organisers to reserve places at guided tours and workshops.