The historical Venice itself is situated on the Adriatic Sea close to the beautiful Italian cities of Verona and Padova and a short distance from Trieste. It's covered with several islands. The inhabitants in Venice have their origin from south east in Greece. Their customs are Bisanse.
Venice lays in a lagoon protected from the Adriatic Sea. It's build on many small islands. It's stands also on poles, which are still in good shape. In the past Venice was one of the most powerful sea republics in Europe. Venice was the real queen of the Adriatic. The town has beautiful botanic gardens and parks, and there are small gardens on the roof of the palaces. In Venice there is also a football stadium, and Venice is playing in the top division.
Venice is a real apocalypse build on the top of the ocean waves and many small islands. The whole town can be described as a complete art gallery. Here in the middle of March this year I experienced bustling cafes and restaurants, trendy shops, theatres, museums and art galleries. But there is more to experience that make memories living forever. It's said that for they who goes there they will either be reborn, fall in love or find peace. In one or another way most people find inspiration sucking in the great atmosphere and admiring the unique surroundings. The way they do it is to take a Gondola trip.
Photo. Gondolas in Grand Canal-Ca' d'Oro.
In this wonderful town visitors can take their time to "surf" around on the top of the waves in a Gondola. They can navigate through narrow channels between walls of unique architecture. A Gondola is 11,20 meter long and a flat-bottomed boat, which is used on shallow water. The boat is build of 11 species of wood. On a Gondola tour passengers can experience the busy traffic system around the town. The Gondoliere (Gondola captain) rows only on one side. It is the old way to row. The big challenge is to keep the balance standing straight up in the narrow boat.
Photo. Narrow channel systems for Gondolas.
Photo. Gondola captain (Gondoliere) kept his balance very good on the narrow boat.
For me it was like travelling in wonderland. On a Gondola I encountered steep bridges, local residences with water in the basement (also in their living room sometimes), historical sites where Casanova, Antonio Vivaldi, Christopher Columbus and Marco Polo have lived, treasures of arts, beautiful monasteries and churches. This made the atmosphere unique, and it is something I ever have dreamed about.
Photo. Main harbour for Gondolas.
Photo. Island of S.Giorgio
Photo. Church of S. Geminiano on Mark Square.
Photo. St. Mark's Bell Tower on Mark Square.
For they who become tired after a long hot day with sightseeing, can take their time to relax on beautiful beaches nearby. Venice Lido is only a short boatride away from St.Mark's Square. With shores stretching twelve kilometres, it has nice beaches. For they who like sunbathing and swimming, it is possible to reserve a beach hut.
Photo. Masks and traditional suits - look up for the carnival.
One of the most fascinating events in Venice is the carnival. The tradition goes on in February each year, and here you will see masks that are made far beyond your fantasy. Venice is a town no one should miss.
Stein Morten Lund,17 April 2002
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