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Tatton Park reveals rare 1729 map of Venice in a new landmark exhibition: “Beyond the View: Canaletto”
This World Heritage Day, on 18 April, visitors to Tatton Park will have the rare opportunity to see, on display for the first time, an extraordinarily important map of Venice. Featured within a new exhibition that follows 18‑year‑old Samuel Egerton’s remarkable journey from rural Cheshire to the vibrant heart of Venice’s art world, the 1729 map by Ludovico Ughi, the Iconografica Rappresentione della Incita di Venezia, stands as a technical marvel of its time. At the forefront of surveying and cartographic innovation, it continued to be used as a trusted reference well into the 19th century.
A piece of Venetian history
First published by Giuseppe Baroni, the map was printed on twelve plates surrounded by exquisitely detailed vignettes depicting sixteen key Venetian buildings —believed to be the work of Francesco Zucchi and inspired by Luca Carlevarijs’ celebrated Fabriche e Vedute di Venezia (1703), the definitive Venetian views of the period. Originally intended to be cut from its folio and assembled into an impressive 5‑by‑6‑foot display, the Tatton copy is an extraordinary survivor: completely uncut, and preserved in its original folio, a remarkable treasure of 18th‑century cartographic artistry. As the first topographical map of the city, Ughi’s creation is remarkably accurate for its time, standing as both a scientific achievement and a work of art.
A dynamic digital experience
To further enhance this extraordinary map and open its stories to new audiences, Tatton Park has partnered with global mapping specialists Esri UK to create an interactive digital interpretation as Carolyn Latham, Mansion and Collections Manager explains: “Visitors will be able to see both the original folio and the digitally assembled map in all its impressive detail, together with an engaging interactive Storymap that invites them to explore the map, draw comparisons with the modern city and connect with the past in entirely new ways. This is a great opportunity to experience this rare and significant masterpiece which we’re delighted to display for the first time.”
A Fusion of Heritage and Innovation
Funded and supported by Art Fund, and with public funds from Arts Council England, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Immersive Arts Fund, Cheshire East Council and Tatton Park’s Charitable Trust, Beyond the View: Canaletto invites visitors to go beyond the surface of the Venetian masterpieces and explore the Egerton family and their unique Italian collections.
“Beyond the View: Canaletto” Runs from 28 March to 1 November 2026.
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Read MoreFrequently asked questions
- What is the "Beyond the View: Canaletto" exhibition?
Beyond the View: Canaletto is a landmark exhibition at Tatton Park exploring the fascinating connection between world-renowned artist Canaletto and Samuel Egerton, an 18-year-old from rural Cheshire who found himself at the heart of Venice's vibrant art world in the 1700s. Rare paintings, letters, artefacts, and cutting-edge digital installations come together to tell a story that has never been told quite like this before.
- When does the exhibition run?
The exhibition runs from 28 March to 1 November 2026, on selected dates. Check the Tatton Park website for specific open days before planning your visit.
- Where is the exhibition?
The exhibition is within the Mansion at Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 6QN. For sat nav, use WA16 6SG
- What will I see?
There are four distinct elements to the exhibition. The Italian Job traces Samuel Egerton's life in Venice, displaying his portrait by Bartolomeo Nazari, rare archival correspondence, and Tatton's two remarkable Canaletto paintings. Italian Connections showcases highlights from Tatton's wider Italian collection, including furniture, glassware, ceramics, and the rarely displayed 1729 map of Venice by Ludovico Ughi. See Me Appear is an immersive digital artwork by Studio Peut-Porter, bringing historic residents of Tatton to life through virtual performance capture, augmented reality, and soundscapes, with a focus on female voices often overlooked by history. The Flow of the Little Canal is a large-scale digital installation in which Tatton's Canaletto paintings appear to come alive, with paint strokes ebbing and flowing beyond their frames like a Venetian canal.
- What is so special about the 1729 map of Venice?
The map by Ludovico Ughi, known as the Iconografica Rappresentione della Incita di Venezia, was a landmark of cartographic innovation when first published. As the first topographical map of Venice, it remained a trusted reference well into the 19th century. The Tatton copy is particularly remarkable as it survives completely uncut and in its original folio. This is the first time it has ever been put on public display.
- How much does it cost?
Admission to the exhibition is included in the Mansion entry ticket. Adult tickets are £15, children aged 4 to 15 are £10, and National Trust Members, Historic Houses Members, under 4s, and all carers are free. Groups of 15 or more are £13.50 per person. The exhibition is also included with a Totally Tatton Ticket, though parkland entry applies to all vehicles.
- Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, advance booking is essential for all visitors, including National Trust and Historic Houses members with a valid pass, to guarantee entry. Free entry tickets can be booked online. Non-members can enjoy 10% off tickets when pre-booked online.
- Is the exhibition suitable for families?
Yes. The mix of immersive digital installations, hands-on storytelling, and world-class art makes this a compelling visit for all ages. The interactive digital elements in particular bring the exhibition to life in a way that will engage younger visitors as well as seasoned art lovers.