20 interesting facts about Venice

Venice, often called the "City of Canals," is a mesmerizing destination that captivates visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture, and unique culture. Each time one visits this enchanting city, it's not just the breathtaking views that leave an impression; there are always fascinating new facts waiting to be discovered. Here, we delve into 20 intriguing curiosities about Venice that will deepen your appreciation for this romantic locale.

Have you ever wondered about the culinary delights of Venice? Or why the city's gondolas are exclusively black? Explore these and many more captivating tidbits about Venice below.

Cicchetti: The Venetian Tapas Experience

While you might think of Spain when it comes to tapas, Venice has its own delightful version called cicchetti (pronounced “chee-ket-tee”). These small plates can include a variety of offerings:

• Delicious slices of bread topped with cured meats or fish
• Flavorful meatballs
• Petite servings of fresh seafood

Enjoying cicchetti is best complemented by an “ombra,” which is a glass of local wine. For an authentic experience, visit some of the best bacari (tapas bars) scattered throughout the city.

Notable Figures Born in Venice

Venice is the birthplace of several illustrious personalities, including the infamous Giacomo Casanova, known for his romantic escapades. Another remarkable figure is Elena Lucrezia Cornaro Piscopia, the first woman to earn a university degree in the world. Interestingly, many people mistakenly believe that Marco Polo, the renowned explorer, was born here; he actually hails from Corfu, which was part of the Venetian Republic during his time.

Venice’s Fish-like Shape

From an aerial perspective, Venice boasts a unique shape that resembles a fish. This striking layout is not just a geographical curiosity but also speaks to the city's historical reliance on the sea and its intricate network of canals.

Napoleon’s Dislike for the Carnival

The famous Venice Carnival dates back to 1296 and has always been a vibrant celebration. However, during Napoleon's rule, he suppressed the carnival, fearing it could lead to insurrections. Thankfully, the tradition has since been revived, allowing visitors to experience its colorful parades and masked festivities.

The Bridge of Sighs

Often misconceived as a spot for romantic sighs, the Bridge of Sighs actually derives its name from the sighs of prisoners who crossed it, catching their last glimpse of freedom before entering the prison. The bridge's haunting beauty adds an air of melancholy to its history.

The Rialto Bridge: A Test of Faith

When the Rialto Bridge was first proposed, many doubted its feasibility. Skeptics claimed it would collapse before completion, leading to a series of comical threats that were later immortalized in stone. Today, the bridge stands as a testament to Venetian engineering and resilience.

Unusual Bridge Names

Venice is home to some uniquely named bridges, including:

• Ponte delle Tette (the Bridge of Breasts) – once a popular spot for prostitutes.
• Ponte dei Pugni (the Bridge of Fists) – known for its fistfights between rival neighborhoods.
• Ponte Chiodo (Nail Bridge) – a bridge without railings, offering a daring walk.

Swimming Prohibited

Despite its inviting waters, swimming in Venice is illegal, largely to preserve the city's delicate ecosystem. If you're craving a swim, head to the nearby Lido di Venezia, where sun and sand await.

The Acqua Alta Phenomenon

One of Venice's most famous occurrences is the acqua alta, or "high water," which floods parts of the city, including St. Mark's Square, from October to March. This natural phenomenon is a reminder of Venice's precarious relationship with the sea.

Gondolas: A Symbol of Venice

Gondolas are one of Venice's most iconic symbols. Each gondola is meticulously crafted in a traditional workshop known as squero veneziano, utilizing eight different types of wood. They measure 10.85 meters long and 1.4 meters wide, weighing around 350 kg.

Affordable Gondola Rides

While gondola rides can be pricey, there's a budget-friendly option known as the traghetto. These gondolas ferry passengers across the Grand Canal for just €2, making it an excellent way to experience a gondola ride without breaking the bank. Here are some popular traghetto stops:

• Fondamenta Santa Lucia (near the train station)
• Fondamente San Simeón Piccolo
• Campo del Traghetto – Calle Lanza
• San Samuele – Ca’ Rezzónico
• Sant’ Angelo – San Tomá
• Riva del Carbón – Fondamente del Vin
• Santa Sofia – Pescaria
• San Marcuola – Fóndaco dei Turchi

Why Are Gondolas Black?

The iconic black color of gondolas stems from a decree by the Serenissima Republic of Venice, which aimed to minimize competition among the wealthy, who were decorating their gondolas extravagantly. Some say the tradition also began as a symbol of mourning during a plague outbreak.

A Song with No Venetian Roots

One of the most popular songs among gondoliers is “Oh, Sole Mio,” a classic from Naples. Despite its association with Venice, this beloved tune has no Venetian origins, showcasing the blending of Italian culture throughout the country.

A Historical Jewish Ghetto

Venice is home to the world's first ghetto, the Jewish Ghetto, established in the early 16th century. This area, rich in history and culture, is often overlooked by tourists but offers a unique glimpse into the city’s diverse past.

The Winged Lion: Venice’s Symbol

The winged lion is a prominent symbol of Venice, often depicted holding an open book that reads “PAX TIBI MARCE EVANGELISTA MEVS” (Peace to you, Mark, my evangelist). This inscription honors St. Mark, the city’s patron saint, and appears in various forms throughout the city.

Ciao: More Than Just a Greeting

While “ciao” is widely recognized as a casual greeting in Italian, its roots can be traced back to the Venetian phrase “sciao vostro,” meaning “your slave.” This reflects the historical context of politeness and servitude in Venetian culture.

Venice’s Unique Streets

In Venice, streets are referred to as “calle” rather than the more common “via” found in other Italian cities. A particularly narrow street, “calle Varisco,” measures just 53 cm wide, making it one of the narrowest in the world.

From Fields to Squares

Interestingly, the squares in Venice are known as “campi” (fields), a nod to their past when these open spaces were primarily used for agriculture.

The Origin of Wine Terms

In the Venetian dialect, a glass of wine is called “ombra,” meaning shadow. This term originated from the tradition of wine vendors in Piazza San Marco who followed the shadow of the campanile to keep their wine cool while they sold it.

Embrace the Night in Venice

With its narrow streets and picturesque canals, Venice is often overrun with tourists during the day. To experience the city in a different light, consider visiting in the evening when the crowds have thinned, and the city takes on a magical ambiance.

With so much to discover, Venice never ceases to amaze. If you have your own curiosities about Venice, feel free to share them in the comments below—we’d love to hear your insights!

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