In 1956, Giuseppe Cipriani, founder of the famous Venetian establishment Harry's Bar, met with an enthusiastic response from his customers for a project he had nurtured for many years. This was to build a hotel within easy reach of St Mark's Square and yet far enough away to ensure peace and privacy. The perfect location was secured: a three-acre plot on the tip of Giudecca Island, only four minutes by boat from St Mark's Square.

Just two years later, the hotel opened its doors with Giuseppe Cipriani at the helm. It proved an instant success thanks to its relaxed atmosphere, attentive service and simple but superbly prepared food, all of which have become hallmarks of the Cipriani today. During the hotel’s first decade, its popularity became such that, in 1968, some adjoining land was purchased and a magnificent 600-square-metre swimming pool was built. This filtered salt-water pool is unique in Venice and is considered one of the finest in Europe.

The Hotel Cipriani was purchased in 1976 by the Sea Containers company, whose President (and subsequent founder of Orient-Express), Mr James B Sherwood, was already a regular guest. Over the years more land and adjacent buildings were purchased to create space for spectacular new restaurants, guest rooms and other facilities.