The Gondolas of Venice

The Gondolas of Venice The gondola is a symbol of Venice, recognisable the world over.  In fact, nowhere else in the world, will you find a boat quite like it.  Although today a gondola ride is a popular tourist attraction, gondolas have glided through the canals of Venice for over five hundred years. How did….

Art in Venice

Art and Venice During the middle ages, while the rest of Europe slumbered, the Republic of Venice flourished. Thanks to its protected location, seafaring and trade and the stability of the government.  While other Medieval city states in Italy hid behind walls, this curious floating city already boasted a palace of government, an opulent Basilica,….

Eating in Venice

Eating in Venice Although many think of pizza and pasta, Italian food is so much more than that and traditional dishes and recipes vary from region to region. In Venice rice and polenta are the main staple; you won’t find much pasta aside from the local bigoli.  To eat like a local, you must eat….

The Jewish ghetto of Venice

CAPTION Carpaccio’s Miracle of the Relic of the True Cross on the Rialto Bridge (15th Century) The Jewish ghetto of Venice In the Cannaregio district of Venice lies the Jewish ghetto; the first of its kind in Europe, whose very name today still connotes a place of segregation and poverty.   This quiet part of the….