Ospedale dell’Angelo: Personal Encounter with
When I first entered Ospedale dell’Angelo in Mestre, I was immediately struck by an unexpected sense of awe. This is certainly not an ordinary hospital. From the very first moment, it’s clear that the architect worked with exceptional sensitivity and consideration for the patients. The hospital’s atrium resembles an expansive botanical garden with beautiful views, pathways, and bridges. Upon entry, you’re greeted by a magnificent statue of an angel, the patron of this hospital that bears his name. There’s a piano in the space, ensuring that if you’ve come as a companion, you certainly won’t be bored while waiting.
Ospedale dell’Angelo: A Fusion of Architecture and Nature
Ospedale dell’Angelo in Mestre is considered the most technologically advanced healthcare facility in Italy and one of the most modern in Europe. The hospital spans an area of 152,000 square meters and offers 680 patient beds. The building comprises seven above-ground and two underground floors. The complex also includes an emergency department, advanced surgical facilities, and a proton therapy center.
An Architectural Gem Emphasizing Greenery
The hospital consists of a glass-faced inpatient block that emerges from a more extensive service and outpatient block covered with greenery. The surrounding landscape garden includes woods, lakes, hills, and an area called „the meadow,“ a large roof garden linking the hospital block with the supplies department building.
Ospedale dell’Angelo: Comfort and Tranquility for Patients
Patient rooms are designed so that each has direct views of plants and trees in front of the windows, as well as long perspectives onto the surrounding fields. This design ensures that patients see greenery instead of other patients through their windows, contributing to their comfort and peace during their stay.
Visitor Access
Visitors arriving by car or train enter the hospital through the Central Garden, a gently sloping green ramp under which all cars are parked. These below-grade and daylight green roof areas are organized into sedum and meadow lawns planted with bands of flowering shrubs and ground cover, linked by paved, furnished footpaths.
A Unique Design Supporting the Healing Process
The hospital’s name is embodied in the silver statue of a stylized angel, donated by architect Bruno Scarpa, located in the internal Atrium Garden. The Emilio Ambasz & Associates scheme was chosen over a more conventional design because the hospital was conceived as part of the healing process.
Conclusion
Ospedale dell’Angelo in Mestre represents a perfect fusion of modern architecture and nature, creating a pleasant and healing environment for both patients and visitors. The emphasis on greenery and innovative design makes this hospital a unique place that transcends traditional concepts of healthcare facilities.
Transport
Ospedale dell’Angelo is located in Mestre, the mainland part of Venice, and is easily accessible by various means of transportation.
By Car:
From the highway, take the „Terraglio“ or „Castellana“ exits on the ring road (Tangenziale) and follow the signs to the hospital, which is approximately 2 km from these exits.
Public Transportation:
Train: The hospital has its own railway station, „Venezia Mestre Ospedale,“ providing convenient access from various directions.
Bus: From Venice (Piazzale Roma), ACTV bus line 80H goes directly to the hospital.
Parking:
For visitors arriving by car, parking is available directly within the hospital premises.
Thanks to its location and excellent transport links, Ospedale dell’Angelo is easily accessible for patients and visitors from both nearby and distant areas.
