Venice: The Floating City, October 31st 2018 Set 2

Venice, a city of canals, gondolas, and timeless beauty, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. This unique Italian city is built on a lagoon, with its streets replaced by waterways that weave through the heart of the city.

Here's a glimpse of what makes Venice so special:

• Canals and Gondolas: One of the most iconic images of Venice is the gondola, a traditional flat-bottomed boat propelled by a single oar. Take a romantic gondola ride through the canals, gliding past historic buildings and bridges.
• St. Mark's Square: The heart of Venice, St. Mark's Square, is a stunning piazza surrounded by magnificent architecture. Admire St. Mark's Basilica, one of the most famous churches in the world, and the Doge's Palace, a former residence of the Venetian rulers.
• The Rialto Bridge: This iconic bridge, spanning the Grand Canal, is a popular spot for people-watching and shopping. The Rialto Market, located nearby, is a vibrant place to buy fresh produce, souvenirs, and local delicacies.
• Murano Glass: Venice is famous for its glassmaking tradition, with the island of Murano being a center for glass production. Visit a glass factory to witness skilled artisans creating beautiful glass objects.
• Carnival of Venice: If you're lucky enough to visit during the annual Carnival of Venice, you'll be treated to a spectacular display of masks, costumes, and festivities.

Tips for Visiting Venice:

• Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable footwear.
• Be mindful of crowds: Venice can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season. Plan your visit accordingly or consider visiting during the shoulder seasons.
• Try local cuisine: Venetian cuisine offers a variety of delicious dishes, including seafood, pasta, and risotto. Don't miss the opportunity to try local specialties like cicchetti (small Venetian snacks).
• Take a day trip: Venice is a great base for exploring other nearby attractions, such as the islands of Murano,Burano, and Torcello.

Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a romantic getaway, Venice has something to offer everyone. Its unique charm and timeless beauty make it a truly unforgettable destination.

This is my 2nd set of images taken around the city on the 31st October 2018, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Ponte del Cristo over the Rio Martin Canal.

Rio Martin Canal.

Church of San Simon Grando.

Church of Santa Maria de Nazareth, the Santa Lucia Venice Railway Station is just visible to the left of the church with a Venetian bus stop to the left and front of the church on the Grand Canal.

Ponte Degli Scalzi and the Grand Canal. This was taken outside the Santa Lucia Venice Railway Station.

Ponte Ruga Vecchia.

The Grand Canal.

Strata Nova.

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Losing Yourself (and Finding Yourself) in the Magic of Venice

Venice. The name itself conjures up images of gondolas gliding through turquoise canals, ancient palazzos whispering secrets of the past, and lovers sharing stolen kisses under a bridge. And let me tell you, the reality is every bit as magical.

Venice is unlike any other city in the world. Founded on over 100 tiny islands in a lagoon, it's a labyrinth of narrow waterways, charming bridges, and hidden piazzas. Getting lost here isn't just possible; it's practically encouraged. Wandering down a random calle (alleyway) might lead you to a tucked-away trattoria serving the freshest seafood, a hidden courtyard adorned with blooming bougainvillaea, or a local artisan selling hand-crafted masks.

Of course, there are some must-sees:

• Piazza San Marco: The heart of Venice, this stunning square is dominated by the magnificent St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. Take in the view from the top of the Campanile bell tower, or simply soak up the atmosphere while sipping a cappuccino at an iconic cafe.

• Gondola Ride: Yes, it's touristy, but it's also undeniably Venetian. Glide down the Grand Canal, serenaded by a gondolier, and you'll feel like you've stepped back in time.

• Island Hopping: Explore the colourful houses of Burano, famous for its lacemaking tradition. Visit Murano, where centuries-old glassblowing techniques are still practiced. And don't miss Torcello, a peaceful island with a charming cathedral and sweeping views of the lagoon.

But Venice is more than just a landmark. It's about the feeling of being surrounded by water, the sound of church bells echoing across the canals, and the delicious aroma of freshly baked bread wafting from local bakeries. It's about getting lost in a maze of streets, then stumbling upon a hidden gem.

Here are some tips for making the most of your Venetian adventure:

• Go early (or late): Venice can get crowded, especially during peak season. Try to visit in the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) or arrive early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the throngs of tourists.
• Embrace the walk: The best way to see Venice is on foot. Comfortable shoes are a must!
• Explore beyond the main sights. Venture off the beaten path and discover the hidden corners of this enchanting city.
• Learn a few Italian phrases: A little effort goes a long way. Even a simple "Buongiorno" (good morning) or "Grazie" (thank you) will be appreciated by the locals.
• Savour the food: Venetian cuisine is a delightful mix of fresh seafood, vegetables, and unique regional specialties. Don't miss the chance to try cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and a glass of local wine in a bacaro (wine bar).

Venice is a city that will stay with you long after you leave. It's a place that awakens the senses, stirs the imagination, and leaves you feeling like you've walked into a living fairy tale. So, pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to lose yourself (and find yourself) in the canals of Venice.

I was in Venice for 5 days in 2018, between the dates of Monday 29th and Friday 2nd November. I took numerous pictures and I have been uploading them in smaller sets. This is set 1 from Wednesday 31st October 2018, they were taken with a Nikon d3300. Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Fondaco dei Tedeschi.

Taken near the Rialto Bridge, the Grand Canal in the foreground.

Merceria San Salvador.

The previous 2 pictures were taken from one of the bridges crossing the Rio dei Bareteri Canal.

Public transport Venetian style, one of the cities water buses on The Grand Canal.

Gondola's moored on the Grand Canal.

Church of San Silverstro

The previous three images are of the Rio Marin Canal.

Ponte Degli Scalzi

Crossers The Grand Canal outside Venice's Railway Station.

The Grand Canal from the Ponte Degli Scalzi, the Venice Santa Lucia Railway Station is just visible to the right of the picture, the Big Dome of Venice (Church of San Simeon Piccolo) to the left.

The waterfront along the San Marco Basin, this is known as the Riva degli Schiavoni.

I'm not sure now you'll be able to visit any major city without finding a Golden Arches. 

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Venice: A City of Timeless Beauty

There is no city quite like Venice. It's a place that seems to float on the water, a labyrinth of winding canals, ancient bridges, and hidden alleyways. My visit in October 2018 revealed a city that is as breathtaking by day as it is enchanting by night, a place where every corner holds a new discovery.

Wandering through the streets, you're constantly reminded that this city is a work of art in itself. The architecture is magnificent, from the grand facade of the Church of Santa Maria dei Carmini, with its distinctive bell tower, to the elegant rooftops that seem to cascade toward the canals. The famous Bridge of Sighs stands as a solemn monument, its intricate design a contrast to the tragic history it represents.

But it's not just the famous landmarks that captivate you. It's the smaller, more intimate moments. The quiet beauty of a canal, where a boat rests gently on the water, or the vibrant energy of a local shopping street at night, with storefronts glowing like beacons on the cobbled streets. Even the less-polished parts of the city have a unique charm, like the whimsical mermaid graffiti that adds a splash of unexpected colour to a weathered wall.

The city has a different persona after dark. The lamp posts of the Ponte de Sann Paternian cast a warm, golden light onto the water and the surrounding buildings, transforming the scene into a moody, romantic painting. The shadows deepen, and the sounds of the day fade, leaving you with a sense of peace and a deeper connection to the city's ancient soul.

From the bustling energy of Campo Sant'Angelo to the solemn beauty of the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II, Venice is a city of contrasts. It is a testament to human creativity and resilience, a place where history feels alive in every stone and every ripple of the water. These photos capture just a few of the countless moments of magic this city offers, a timeless beauty that remains long after the trip is over.

Clicking on any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Church of Santa Maria dei Carmini bell tower.

Bridge of Sighs.

Camp Sant'Angelo.

Cassa de Risparmio di Venezia.

Church of Sant'Angelo Bell Tower.

Hotel Cavalletto.

Victor Emmanuel II Monument.

Ponte de Sann Paternian.

Spiral Staircase at the San Marco Palace Hotel.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

The Stone Sentinel of Venice: A Tale of the Rialto Bridge

Venice is a city of magic and myth, and at its heart lies a symbol of its enduring spirit: the Rialto Bridge. More than just a crossing, this majestic stone arch is a bustling marketplace, a historical landmark, and a testament to centuries of resilience. It is the oldest of the four bridges to span the legendary Grand Canal, and its story is one of innovation, collapse, and ultimate triumph.

A Bridge of Many Lives

The bridge you see today is actually the culmination of a long and dramatic history. The very first crossing at this narrow point of the Grand Canal was a modest pontoon bridge, the Ponte della Moneta, built in 1181. It was a simple, practical solution to connect the growing districts of San Marco and San Polo.

As Venice’s commerce boomed, particularly with the thriving Rialto market nearby, a more substantial crossing was needed. In 1255, the pontoon bridge was replaced by a wooden structure that, remarkably, featured a movable platform in the middle to allow tall ships to pass. It was this bridge that first housed shops whose rents helped fund the bridge's maintenance. The name was also changed to "Rialto," a nod to the nearby market and the heart of Venetian trade.

However, the wooden bridges were fragile. They were repeatedly damaged by fire—notably during a failed coup attempt by Bajamonte Tiepolo in 1310—and twice collapsed entirely. The most spectacular collapse was in 1444, when it buckled under the weight of a huge crowd celebrating the wedding procession of the Marquis of Ferrara.

The Birth of a Masterpiece

After yet another collapse in 1524, Venetian authorities decided a stone bridge was the only way forward. In 1551, they launched a competition, attracting proposals from the greatest architects of the day, including Michelangelo and Palladio. Yet, it was the bold design by Antonio da Ponte that won. His plan for a single-span arch was revolutionary and, to many, terrifyingly ambitious. Skeptics predicted it would collapse, but the design’s practicality and elegance convinced the city.

Work began in 1588 and, thanks to a staggering feat of engineering, was completed just three years later. To support the immense weight of the stone arch and its shops, over 6,000 timber piles were driven into the soft Venetian mud on each side. The result was a bridge of immense strength and beauty, a landmark that defied its critics and has stood firm for over 400 years.

A Living, Breathing Landmark

The Rialto Bridge is a marvel of both architecture and function. Spanning 31.8 meters with a height of 7.32 meters and a width of 22.9 meters, it's an imposing presence. But what truly makes it unique is its inner life. Two arcades of shops run along its length, selling everything from traditional Venetian crafts to high-end jewelry. A central pathway of steps, flanked by these bustling shops, leads to two panoramic viewpoints at the very top. These offer stunning, unobstructed views of the Grand Canal, with its constant procession of gondolas, vaporetto water buses, and historic palaces. Walking across the Rialto Bridge today is to be part of a continuous, living history. You can feel the echoes of merchants trading, lovers meeting, and artists drawing inspiration from its majestic form. It's not just a way to get from San Marco to San Polo; it’s an essential part of the Venetian experience, connecting its past, present, and future.

I took the pictures below on the 30th October 2018 with a Nikon d3300, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Clickasnp and Photo4Me using the links below. Your support means a lot!

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.