The nave is open for large congregations; the side walls are lined with wall tombs and cenotaphs.

The Basilica di San Giovanni e Paolo, known in the Venetian dialect as San Zanipolo, is one of the largest churches of Venice and has the status of a minor basilica. A huge brick edifice built in the Italian Gothic style, it is the principal Dominican church of Venice, and as such was built for preaching to large congregations. After the 15th century the funeral services of all of Venice's doges were held in San Zanipolo. Twenty-five doges are buried in the church.