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| Ponte di Rialto |
Among the many sights on our MUST SEE list is the Rialto Bridge, or Ponte di Rialto. Built in the 1500's to replace a wooden bridge at the same site, many consider it the heart of Venice. Michelangelo was among the artisans to compete for the contract. He lost. See the bridge from the water on a vaporetto, water taxi, or gondola. And make sure to cross it on foot, stopping at the top to take in the magnificent view.
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| Gondola and Gondolier |
Yes, one way to view the Rialto Bridge is from a gondola. No visit to Venice is complete without a gondola ride. Some may think it a cheesy thing to do but to miss this opportunity would be to live forever after with regret. Lucy is happy she didn't miss this experience!
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| Opera Singer and Accordionist on Gondola |
Lucky gondola riders might be treated to unexpected serenades by local opera singers. Lucy and Hester will attest that it's hard to enjoy this delight with a dry eye. Bring tissues, just in case.
TIME FOR EXPLORATION
Every visitor to Venice should allow plenty of time to meander through the
calli and
campi (small squares) to discover the canals, Byzantine and Gothic buildings, churches, and campanile, not to mention the many shops, cafes, and eateries. A warm afternoon requires a stop for gelato! And don't forget to spend more time in Piazza San Marco!
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| Venetian canals, bridge, and architecture | | | |
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| Buildings on canals have entries from the canal to unload goods. Note the gothic arch. |
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| Santi Giovanni e Paola Church sits next to a pleasant campo |
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| View from the terrace of San Marco Basilica |
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| Grand Canal |
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| Santa Maria Della Salute |
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| Teatro La Fenice, the opera house. Well named, this phoenix has burned to the ground twice. |
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| A painting of Venice that is displayed in Venice's art museum, Gallerie dell'Accademia. |
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| Many of the calli are quite narrow. But wandering through them is an adventure! |
After a day of exploring, most visitors find themselves back in Piazza San Marco. Take time to admire the clocktower with its whimsical clockface that includes the signs of the Zodiac. The winged lion on this tower and displayed throughout Venice is the symbol of St. Mark. Fight through the crowds in front of the Doge's Palace to appreciate the pink and white marble architectural wonder, with its Gothic, Byzantine, and Moorish influences. Make sure to schedule a couple of hours to tour the interior at some time during your time in Venice. Also, make sure to get tickets to tour the magnificent interior of Basilica San Marco. Try to time it so that you are inside at the time of the 'illumination.' You will not want to miss this marvel!
Enjoy your time in magical Venice!
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| The Clocktower in Piazza San Marco | | | | | | | | | |
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| The Clockface with Its Zodiac Signs |
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| The Doge's Palace |
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The Doge's Palace
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A Trip to Burano
Burano, famous for its lace making, is a beautiful, small Venetian island. The brightly painted buildings are a visitor's first hint that nothing but delights await them. Shop for handmade, intricate lace, enjoy a delicious seafood meal, and meander about with a gelato in hand! Make time, too, for a trip to the island of Murano, known for its beautiful blown glass. Watch as a master creates glorious glass masterpieces!
Discover Venice and all of its charms! Ciao!
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| The Pastel Buildings of Burano |
