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History & Culture |
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This picturesque city on the Venetian lagoon has become recognized in the world for its splendid Baroque architecture, its unique location and it''s reputation as one of the most romantic destinations in all the world. Her history does not stretch so far as her Italian sisters, but certainly is as eventful. Fishermen inhabited this mudflat region as far back as the 1st century, but formal recognition would not be gained until 452 A.D.. The population of this coastal plain grew quickly when the barbarians, led by Attila the Hun, drove many from the Lombardy and Veneto regions to seek refuge from the war in the islands on the Adriatic.
In 452 A.D. the new settlers would establish a government controlled by tribunes selected to represent each of the 12 primary islands. The island nation would become part of the Byzantine Empire, but at the turn of the 8th century Venetians would establish a republic and elect their first Doge. This would mark the beginning of the city''s growth as a commercial trade center.
Venice would continue to face attacks from the Saracens and the Hungarians under their leader Hapsburg, but would remain undefeated as a Republic. The Saracens would sign a treaty with the Venetians allowing them to trade with the Muslims instead of fighting against them, making Venice the exclusive link between the East and the European community, and catapulting her commercial success to a point where there was none greater.
This success would profit from the fall of the Byzantine Empire and lead Venice to victories in Constantinople and Cyprus in the early 13th century. Her territory would grow to include these gateways to the Mid-east and Mediterranean, thus controlling the areas major trade routes. Government would shift from republic to oligarchy as the wealthy Viconti family would gain political dominance. Marco Polo, ''great and nobel citizen of the city of Venice,'' would come to symbolize this spirit of enterprise in the 13th century as he set out to explore China.
Venice would defeat Amalfi and Pisa leaving only Genoa as competition for commercial seaport control. Marco Polo would return nearly 20 years later to successfully assist Venice in their battle with Genoa for the supremacy. Venice would reach the height of success during the Renaissance. Soon though the Ottoman Turks would regain control of Constantinople and the city''s success would begin its decline. In the 15th century city-state would find war with nearly every single European power, including the Pope of the Holy Roman Empire. Soon her trade routes would be superseded by the great powers of England and Portugal, the city would never be able to regain the success of her early years.
In 1797 Venice would be conquered by the French under Napoleon Bonaparte. In 1805 control would be relinquished to Austria, the city would change hands many times before returning to the Italian kingdom in 1866. This beautiful city would shift its economic focus from trade to tourism. Leagues of visitors would travel each year to this romantic island paradise, her legend and beauty so highly respected that she would remain unharmed during World War II as both sides respected her heritage enough to spare her wonders. Venice remains a top tourist destination, a popular spot for newlyweds, the city''s romance and mystique lend well to a fine honeymoon.
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International Airports |
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Venezia - Marco Polo (VCE)
Distance from Venice city: 12 Km by land, 10 Km by water
*Available by ''motoscafi'' (watertaxi)
Phone Numbers:
Information: 041-2606111 / 2381590
Tickets: 041-2606428
Lost Luggage: 041-2606436
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Shopping |
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Shops in Venice are generally open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 - 1:00 p.m. and then reopen from 3 or 3:30 - 7:00 pm. Some shops won''t close for the afternoon break, but most do. Monday hours are limited to 3:00 - 7:00, and nearly everything is closed on Sunday. Venice is a great place for finding whatever it is you seek. Shoppers will find many designer outlets, boutiques and great street markets. Some unique souvenirs to be found in Venice include hand blown glass, Carnivale masks and decorator fabrics.
Merceria - From the Piazza to the Rialto, this is the most frequented shopping street in Venice and offers chic shops and great boutiques.
The Rialto Area - In the area surrounding the bridge you will find a plethora of shops, but more importantly from Tuesday through Saturday you are likely to find some of the most colorful and exciting open-air food market shopping experiences in all of Italy. (Santa Maria Formosa and Santa Margherita also offer a great open-air market experience!)
Calle dei Fabbri - Also a popular shopping area adjacent to the Merceria.
Frezzeria Grander - An area of high-end luxury retailers, the ultimate destination for shopping during your travels in Venice.
Campo Santo Stefano - A great place to find gifts, souvenirs, books and paper goods.
San Polo - From the Rialto area, you will find an array of interesting shops offering great products and even better prices! You will also find Color Casa, offering competitively priced, great quality, decorator fabrics.
Strada Nova - Offers quality shops, often frequented by the locals.
San Marco - Find famous name fashion designers lining the streets near the Piazza. You will also find attractive reproductions of antique glassware and some of the city''s best jewelers.
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Sightseeing |
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Venice itself is a sight to see. With its grid of 150 canals and 400 bridges, every watery turn exposes another photo opportunity. Some of the world''s most precious examples of baroque architecture can be seen on your travels here. These destinations should surely top your list of ''Must See'':
Itinerari Segresti del Palazzo Ducale - A tour of the Doge''s Palace should top the list of any visitor traveling to Venice.
The Grand Canal - The view from your gondola will fascinate and delight you as you take in city''s most breathtaking architecture. For a particularly romantic experience enjoy the Grand Canal by night.
Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto) - This landmark bridge is built on more than 10,000 wooden pilings which have lent support to the bridge for more than 400 years.
Campanile di San Marco - Originally beckoning navigators through the lagoon, this former lighthouse can be visited today. Guests will enjoy the incredible views from the observation deck at the top of the bell tower.
The Basilica di San Marco & the Pizza San Marco - Patron Saint of the city, the Basilica is a wonderous architectural structure, the Piazza a splendid opportunity for picture taking.
The Lagoon - Take a ''vaporetti'' or water-bus to explore the islands that surround this marine gem.
St. Mark''s Square - A popular vantage point for people watching and picture taking, the square was once home to a State Lion who lived in a golden cage. This became the symbol of the great power that was Venice, and the flag remains the city symbol today.
Carnivale - In the weeks leading to Lent the city erupts with a splendid parade of pageantry and fun.
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Food & Drink |
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In the city built by its powerful success in commerce Venice''s merchant history continues to inspire the city today. Non-traditional and unexpected ingredients are sure to delight and surprise you. Seafood being a specialty is a sure fire winner as it is as fresh as fresh can be, and years of preparation have led to traditional dishes which are tasteful and alluring. Venetians prefer their wines white and light, and often times sparkling. Try the Prosecco, this popular sparkling white is an honest delight for the palate. Might we suggest:
Caffe'' Florian - This famous café is steeped in the history of San Marco''s Piazza. Enjoy a seat outside, inside or take a place on your feet at the bar. Try whatever cocktail is in season, you will be pleased.
Dorsoduro - San Polo and Canareggio. A great get away from the tourist menus. Moderately priced.
Dalla Marisa - This marvelous, family run, trattoria offers a welcome alternative to seafood. Moderately priced.
Ca d''Oro - Alla Vedova. The lines are long, but worth the wait, the menu includes a healthy portion of traditional fare and reasonably priced.
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