History of Venice

Venice – a city in northern Italy, located on the lagoon of the Adriatic Sea. Known for its canals instead of streets, bridges, gondolas and monuments. The historical center is, m.in, St. Mark’s Square and St. Mark’s Basilica. Venice is inscribed on the UNESCO list.

Venice was founded in the fifth century and was a powerful maritime republic for many centuries. Its richness and influence are visible in architecture, art and culture. The city is famous for its Venetian carnival, masks and Murano glass. Venice attracts millions of tourists a year, but it struggles with the problem of overtourism and climate change. Despite the difficulties, it remains one of the most beautiful and unique cities in the world.

Use of water in Venice

In Venice, in addition to traditional forms of water transport such as gondolas and vaporettos, there are also many other water-related aspects that play an important role in the life of the city and its residents. Here are a few more interesting facts:

Tides (Maree)

The cycle of high and low tides, known as “maree,” has a significant impact on Venice. Every few years, the water in the canals can rise high enough to flood streets and squares, posing a challenge for the city. The authorities in Venice have developed the MOSE system, designed to protect the city from flooding by raising barriers during high tides.

Historical Regattas

Venice has a long tradition of regattas held on its waters. The oldest and most prestigious is the Regata Storica, which takes place annually on the Grand Canal and is celebrated on the first Sunday of September. These races attract crowds of tourists and are one of the most important cultural events in Venice.

Gondolas

Gondolas are a symbol of Venice, but they are also an important part of its history and tradition. In the past, they were mainly used as a means of transportation for locals, while today they serve as a tourist attraction. It’s worth knowing that gondolas are handmade, and the process of building and maintaining them is a true art form. Gondola builders, known as gondolieri, undergo special training and are considered experts in their craft.

Sports in Venice

Rowing (Voga alla veneta)

 A traditional way of rowing while standing, typical for gondoliers. It’s a very unique sport in Venice. A famous person in this sport was e.g. Filippo Mondelli.

Venice often hosts historic regattas (like the Regata Storica), where traditional boats race in the canals. A famous person in this sport was e.g. Ruggero Tita.

Visitors can explore the canals by kayak or stand-up paddleboard. It’s very popular among tourists. A famous person in this sport was e.g. Antonio Rossi. 

 People sail in the Venetian Lagoon and nearby waters of the Adriatic Sea. A famous person in this sport was e.g. Lapo Elkann. 

These sports are usually done outside the city center, for example on Lido island, where there are beaches and open sea. A famous person in this sport was e.g. Alessandro Grassi.

"Waterland"- Venice summary

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Venice has always been accessible by shipping and water sports. Water is a key issue in trade, communication and the development of the city. Shipping is available for utility purposes and used for water sports. Today, these traditions are still alive and important for the culture of Venice.