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Venice is a city frozen in the mists of time, ancient yet thoroughly modern. Somehow it survives built on a series of wooden poles that sink deep into the mud and flowing water of the Adriatic underneath the city. It floods regularly, and they say it is now sinking. Venice has no cars or even streets. It is made up of small canals, walkways, and footbridges. Transportation is by foot or Gondola boat only!
When people think of Venice, a Gondolier in his striped vest and straw hat is the first image that comes to mind. There is no better way to see Venice than hiring one of these charming gentlemen to ferry you about. Your first stop should be Murano.
Murano is where the famous Venetian glass is made. It has been producing glass since 1291, when the craftsmen were moved to the Island of Murano to protect Venice from fire and the smell of smoke. Murano was the main producer of glass in Europe during the 15th and 16th Centuries. They have daily glass blowing exhibitions taking place, and wonderful shopping. It is very worthwhile to visit the Museo Vetrario. Located in the Palazzo Giustinian, it has a fantastic collection of antique glass pieces. Particularly note worthy is a Wedding Cup by Barovier with beautiful enamel work dating from 1475.
During the 16th century the fashionable Venetian aristocrats decided to acquire villas on land in Veneto. The main architect for these villas was Andrea Palladio. He took his inspiration from ancient roman prototypes provided in the writings of Virgil and Vitruvis. A nice day trip is to the Villa Barbaro. The Villa is lovely example of a Palladian villa.
If you are the adventurous sort, Venice in February is a blast. There is nothing in the world that compares to Venice's Carnival. The Carnival is a tradition that dates back to the 11th century, hit its peak in the 18th century, went into a slow decline and was revived full force in 1980. Carnival consists of a series of balls and street parties where all the participants wear elaborate costumes to hide their identity. Historically, anonymity provided by the masks has been used to carry out secret amorous liaisons, and for the famous, notorious, and wealthy to blend in with the crowd. Part of the fun is not knowing if your newly met companion is a Prince or just one of those handsome gondoliers.
The Masks worn by partygoers are Venetian treasures in and of themselves. There are shops all over Venice that sell them and give demonstrations on how they are made. They cost between $5.00 USD and $5000.00 USD. They are a fun souvenir to take home with you. Be sure to plan your stay well in advance, if you want to visit during Carnival. Hotels are regularly sold out during this period.
Venice is never an inexpensive city to visit. Expect to pay on average about $300.00 per night. Especially if you want to be in walking distance to San Marco's Square. San Marco's Square is the location of the Basilica (of San Marco) and the Doge Palace (when visiting the Doge Palace, the torture chamber is a must see). You can easily spend all afternoon just walking around here. A fine way to cap off your afternoon is to sit in one of the surrounding cafés people watching over your expresso.
Dinner in Venice is always a delight. Fish is the expected menu item, but the ice cream is what Venice is famous for making. Gianduiotto is a chocolate ice cream dream, that you must try before leaving Venice. Also popular are the seasonal water ices. They are made from fresh fruit frozen in blocks of ice, then shaved down into a taste treat.
When you leave Venice give a warm Cordiali Saluti to all, and know you have been somewhere unlike any other place in the world.
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