On September 4, 1576, the Senate decided that the Doge should announce the vow to erect a church dedicated to the Redentore (Redeemer), in return for help in ending the plague.
Each year, on the anniversary of the day that the city was publicly proclaimed free of the disease, the Venetians pay homage at the basilica in memory of the good brought to the city.
On 3 May, 1577, with the plague not yet officially eradicated, the first stone of Palladio's votive church was laid, and it was consecrated in 1592 (12 years after the famous architect's death).
The facade has four enormous columns supporting a large triangular tympanum and appears to be on three levels.
The interior is both solemn and simple, with a Latin cross design.