The Gallerie dell' Accademia is one of the most important art museums in Italy. It offers a comprehensive overview of Venetian painting from the 14th to the 18th century, including masterpieces by all the great masters.
The state museum is located in the prestigious centre of the Scuola Grande of Santa Maria della Carità, one of the most ancient lay fraternal orders of the city. The homonymous church of Santa Maria and the monastery of the Canonici Lateranensi, built by Andrea Palladio, are integral parts of the Accademia. It was originally the gallery of the Art Academy of Venice, from which it became independent in 1879.
(Summary from information on the official website, and other sources)
