Furious Venetians try to stop Benetton opening £45million megastore in 500-year-old palazzo on Grand Canal

Venice has given permission for one of its most famous buildings on the Grand Canal to be converted into a Benetton 'megastore' amid fierce protest from conservationists.
The Fondaco dei Tedeschi, a 13th century palazzo, was bought by the international clothing retailer for £45million in 2008.
Despite promising to spend millions to restore the crumbling facade, the company faced strong opposition from heritage campaigners who claimed it would damage Italy's 'historical identity'.

The Fondaco dei Tedeschi was built in the 13th Century to house German merchants

Conservationists say Benetton's plans to convert the building will damage Italy's 'historical identity'

Italia Nostra - meaning Our Italy - launched a legal bid challenging the plans and accused Benetton of buying 'full and fast' obedience from the council.

 

Leading the opposition at the council were representative of former comedian Beppe Grillo's 5-Star Movement (M5S) which is in the midst of potentially forming a government in Italy's hung parliament.
After more than 18 months of wrangling, the Mayor of Venice Giorgio Orsoni announced on Tuesday the project has finally been given the go-ahead.

The Fondaco's beautiful arches were immortalised in this painting by Canaletto

Benetton says the project will restore the building to its original use and create 400 jobs

'We will see an important part of the city reborn,' he said.
Overlooking the famous Rialto Bridge, the building was originally built to house German merchants and combined offices, living quarters and a market.

Mayor Orsoni drew criticism for allowing large advertising hoardings to be displayed on the Venice's Grand Canal