Interesting facts
The rising water
In the fall, especially in October and November, the tide often rises and the water overflows the banks of the canals, flooding the city: the foundations, the alleyways, the fields, the ground floor of houses, churches and shops.
The rising water is a problem for the Venetians but for tourists it is an unusual, exciting experience. Seeing Piazza San Marco flooded by a still lake of water is most certainly a unique, magical moment, which has been immortalised by photographers many times over the years.
The names of the calli, campi and campielli
The Venetian calli have unusual names that are usually taken from either the city's history or from an event that took place in that spot. It can also be taken from the jobs of the people who lived in that lane or square.
The names of the streets are written on small white squares known as nizioleti placed on the outside of the buildings.
Gondolas
Venice is famous for its gondola. This typical Venetian boat is very old and is the result of a series of extremely complex craft techniques. A gondola is 11 meters long and weighs 600 kilograms. In spite of its considerable weight it is quite ease to maneuver by just one person using a single oar.
We recommend you visit the Squero at San Trovaso where gondolas are still made today by the master craftsmen using ancient techniques.
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