Ventians have been working in crystal and glass since the 10th century, passing techniques and secrets from generation to generation. Due to the fire hazards inherent in the trade, most of the industry was moved to the island of Murano in the 13th century. Some artisans remain in the city center, crafting small items in […]
Tag Archives | Italy
Evening in Venice
There was a full moon this week, but luckily no high tide. Venice is always prepared for the acqua alta. There are piles of risers all over the city, which serve as raised sidewalks when the floods come. Also, homes have door dams, which can be pulled up to prevent the flow of water from […]
Burano
This island of brightly colored houses is a fishing village known for the freshest seafood in Venice (that’s really saying something!) and lace. Burano is about 90 minutes from San Marco on the vaporetti (ferry boats).
Morning Deliveries
Each morning, the canals are jammed with boats carrying the cargo necessary to sustain life on the islets.
Venetian Intersection
An unusual sight: traffic lights control the flow at this three-canal intersection. Typically, when gondolas or other boats arrive at intersections, they slow down and announce their presence by yelling to alert other drivers.
The Last Supper, Behind the Scenes?
Paolo Veronese’s Feast in the House of Levi was originally called Last Supper until the Catholic Church condemned the artist for featuring drunkards, dwarves, dogs and Reformation-minded Germans among the apostles. Veronese agreed to change the name, but refused to revise the painting. In defiance against Rome, Venice stood by the painter. See this wall-sized […]
Grand Canal, Venice
One of Venice’s many special qualities is the absence of autos. Instead, Venice relies on boats since the city is comprised of 117 islets and 150 canals, all connected by 400 bridges. You’d think lack of emissions would make Venice the healthiest place in the world, but it has a different problem: its environment is […]
Alilaguna
When in Venice, taking a €15 Alilaguna ferry from the airport to the city is not the quickest mode but it can be relatively direct. Buses and taxis drop passengers at different points in the city, but then other modes of transport such as water taxis, vaporettos (water busses) or walking is required. Three different […]
Palazzo Ducale
Palazzo Ducale, a stunning Gothic building, is situated on the best real estate in Piazza San Marcos. In addition to being lagoon-front, this grand government building is arranged around a colonnaded courtyard. Inside, amidst the gilt and marble are extravagant staircases and official rooms such as the Collegiate Antechamber, Council Room and the Senate Hall. […]
