Vaguely reminiscent of an amphitheatre, the Campo del Ghetto Nuovo is surrounded by unusually high buildings for Venice, due to the fact that Jews were not allowed to build outside their district. The buildings are an impressive sight, resembling a vertical wall along the canal. A quiet and tranquil atmosphere reigns in this square which is lined by shops with Hebrew signage displaying religious objects, glass knick-knacks, post cards and books.