Nicolò Contarini

Nicolò Contarini became familiar with philosophy and soon gained a reputation for fairness in his conduct of the public administration of the Republic of Venice.

Contarini's reign began poorly, with Venetian troops, who were participating in the War of the Mantuan Succession, losing a decisive battle at Valeggio in May 1630, a predecessor to the unsatisfying Peace of Regensburg in October 1630.

The government acted promptly, imposing quarantine on plague victims and burning the corpses, but it was unable to prevent the death of thousands.

In October 1630, at the request of the Signoria, Contarini vowed to construct a church in honour of the Blessed Virgin Mary once the plague was over.

Contarini died in Venice on 2 April 1631, before the cornerstone of this church, Santa Maria della Salute, was laid.