“ An Orange gem resting on a blue glass plate: Its Venice seen from above.” Well, everything seen and everything heard about this iconic city of Italy, seems like magic always. Fascinating, isn’t it? We all know that Venice, is a city like no other, floating gracefully on a network of canals. In this blog, you will discover many such facts about Venice, that will make you fall in love with this unique city, even more! So let’s quickly start our journey through this captivating city full of surprises, from its stunning architecture to its rich history.
Here are some interesting facts about Venice you need to know!
- Venice’s history dates back to around 402 AD when the Veneti people sought refuge on these islands during barbarian invasions.
- In 421, the Venetians formed an independent republic that lasted until Napoleon’s invasion in 1797. It controlled much of the Adriatic coast and parts of Croatia, Montenegro, Albania, and Greece.
- Venice was founded on 118 small islands in the 5th century AD. By the 10th century, it had become a major marine power. It dominated the trade routes that connected Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
- With the end of the ‘Silk Route’ from China, this city of bridges flourished on luxurious trade and cargo. It was a cosmopolitan city then, which means it earned ‘global sophistication.’ This city was wealthy and influential throughout the Middle Ages and Renaissance, a period of European civilization.
- Venice is like a watery maze with 178 canals instead of regular streets. These waterways are like the city’s lifeblood for transport and commerce. Isn’t that so unique?
- There are beautiful and elegant bridges that connect Venice’s island. The most celebrated ‘Rialto Bridge’ and the ‘Bridge of Sighs’ are among the 438 bridges that travel the canals.
- Venice is a puzzle of 124 small islands, each with its unusual character and charm. together, they create a unique urban group of islands.
- As you walk, you are treading on a frightening forest and wooden pilings that support the buildings and prevent them from sinking into the lagoons.
- This city hosts one of the oldest and the most famous carnivals globally, Carnevale. The intricate masks, costumes, and festive celebrations fill the streets during this magical time. Well, this celebration goes on for 2 weeks. What a beauty it must be!
Look at more additional facts about the floating city!
- Now let’s know about one of the dark yet most interesting facts about Venice and its Venetian masks that go beyond beauty. Indeed these Venetian masks aren’t just pretty but have a rich cultural history. They not only beautified the wearer. But they also allow people to hide their identities and social status which helps them to engage in forbidden activities.
- During Carnevale, the city hosts the Ballo del Doge, a masquerade ball party where Venetians and Visitors dance for the whole night in wealthy costumes enjoying themselves.
- In the Republic of Venice, Gondolas were the preferred mode of transportation. But do you know what Gondolas are? Well, these are thin and elegant boats sailing through the canals, carrying passengers in style. This not only gives them a wonderful experience but, also beautiful memories for a lifetime.
- The ‘Basilica di San Marco’ stands as a cathedral, that is well-embellished with decorations stolen from other cities and empires. Its luxury reflects Venice’s historical wealth and influence.
- Also, these facts about Venice include a place in Basilica di Marco where you can see the stolen bronze horses that were once added to the grace of ‘Constantinople’s Hippodrome.’ They symbolize Venice’s power and conquests.
- The bell tower, ‘Campanile di San Marco’ that, we all know today is fairly new. It was rebuilt in the early 20th century after its collapse in 1902. You can climb to the top of this tower on your visit to Venice for a magnificent view of the whole city.
- Now let’s know about Doge’s Palace. Well, this majestic palace can be called the political heart of the republic. Doges ‘the rulers’ lived there. The ancient decisions that shaped the destiny of Venice were all made within these walls.
Dive into some fascinating facts about Venice!
- It is interesting to know that Venice has two patron saints. Firstly St. Mark, well-known as ‘San Marco,’ and second comes St. Theodore. St. Mark’s Basilica honors the former, and his symbol, the winged lion, is everywhere in the city too.
- Venice experiences annual flooding known as ‘Acqua Alta’. In this condition the city’s slow sinking continues, making this sensation both, a challenge and a unique defining feature.
- The Venetian’s regional population is slowly declining due to tourism and a rise in the living cost, of the place. The city now is wrestling between balancing its heritage and meeting modern demands.
- This wonderful city has some kind of streets. ‘Campo’ means the squares and ‘Calle’ means the alleys. There are no regular streets here, just the charming squares and winding alleys. It must feel like such a unique thing to experience!
- The street layout even today follows the designs set by Austrian rulers during their occupation. Therefore, this is proof of Venice’s complicated history.
- Have you ever wondered where the most famous Bellini cocktail was invented? Well, it was here in Venice, at Harry’s Bar! So, to enjoy this peachy delight with the Venetian ambiance must surely stand on your bucket list.
- One of the most surprising facts about Venice is that it has a beach coastline. Of its own! On the Lido Island, Venice offers it all. The sun, sand, and sea!
- San Michele Island, Venice’s cemetery, is a calm and peaceful place for the departed. So this place is not only surrounded by the waters but also by the history of its people.
Know some amazing facts about Venice!
- Well, in the past few days, we have come across, the word, ‘Quarantine’ scarily! But did you know that the word ‘quarantine’ originated from the Venetian practice of isolating the ships during the plague attacks? That’s true! It’s a legacy of Venice’s marine past.
- Venice has been well-recognized as ‘La Dominate’. The reason is that this city has been the capital of the Venetian Republic of the Serenissima, for over 1100 years.
- Between the 15th and the 17th centuries, was ‘La Serenissima’ which means ‘the most serene’. It was because it was considered one of the richest cities in Italy. Therefore, Venice was once the most powerful Serene Republic.
- Also, one of the interesting facts about Venice is regarding the casinos that are famous worldwide today. Undoubtedly, the world’s first casino, ‘Palazzo Vendramin Calergi Casino,’ was opened in Venice in 1638.
End Note
As we conclude our journey through these facts about Venice, we realize that this city of bridges is, more than just a travel destination. With its endless charms and, fascinating stories this gorgeous city always captures our hearts. I’m sure, these facts about Venice have added to your curiosity and immensely inspired you to explore this city.
So, if you enjoyed reading this blog as much as I felt joy writing it for you, do share this blog with others who would love to experience the wonders of this magical place. As Venice never quits to amaze you all, never quit on your bucket list too! And, start planning your Venetian adventure now and live your life to the fullest.
