The over-elaborate baroque façade of San Moisè, described as the clumsiest church in Venice, commands the attention of those walking towards San Marco from the Accademia. Built in the 17th century in full baroque style, the façade is scattered with statues of moral virtues and members of the Fini family, who funded the building of the façade, effectively transforming this sacred space into a personal trophy. It was for this reason that Ruskin called it the most “atheist church” in the world, and it is especially in contrast to the smooth smart looks of the Hotel Bauer next to it. During the Counter-Reformation, it was in this square of San Moisè that book burnings were held.
