Venezia
With the Bezos wedding putting Venice in the news, it reminded me of a weekend trip I took to the “floating city” back in 2012.
I had travel to Italy for work and spent much of my time in Vicenza, but I managed an escape to Venice for the weekend before returning home. My late February visit coincided with the beginning of Carnival so I was able to capture some of the characters and people that have made this iconic festival so cool. I also spent my days walking and exploring the city and its fringes.
I dug through my archives and pulled a selected few images to share here - the memories are strong and hopefully I can get back to revisit Venice’s canals and walk its streets and bridges and re-live its vibrant energy once again.
February 2012, images/text: Martin Fernandez
Venice has always been on my bucket list and I was lucky enough to visit the City of Masks in late February of 2012. The city is uniquely built on a network of over 100 islands that are connected by over 150 canals and nearly 450 bridges.
Venice was once a powerful Maritime republic and a major center of trade and art during the Midd eAges and the Renaissance. Its rich history is visible in its architecture.
My February trip was perfect since it coincided with the beginning of Carnival. The cold weather kept the crowds at bay and presented me with a unique opportunity to explore the city. While it was a little damp and chilly, the atmosphere around the city made it a truly unforgettable visit. I’m looking forward to coming back to this wonderful Italian destination.
Below are a handful of selected images I captured during my daily walks that highlight Venice’s canals, bridges, people and neighborhoods.
Venetian Canals
ABOVE: The entrance to the Grand Canal, Venice’s main artery.
Venice’s canals are the lifeblood of the city. The Grand Canal (above) winds through the hear of the city like a giant reverse “S.” The Grand Canal is lined with historic places, churches and vibrant markets. I was able to experience the Grand Canal in a “vaporetto,” a venetian public bus.
The canals wind through Venice’s 118 islands and serve as streets for boats instead of cars. The canals are glimpse to Venice’s history and reflect centuries of Venetian glory.
Venetian Bridges
Venice's bridges are essential for those who walk the city (aka me). The nearly 450 bridges span over 150 canals and connect the 118 islands that make up the city. Ranging from simple stone footbridges to architectural landmarks like the Ponte di Rialto, each bridge carries people and centuries of history. The bridges often offer picturesque views of the city's canals and buildings.
BELOW: A view of the Ponte di Rialto, one of the most iconic and historic landmarks in Venice. The Ponte di Rialto, which connects the San Marco and San Polo districts, is the oldest fo the four bridges that span the Gran Canal. Completed in 1591, the Ponte di Rialto is more than just a rbdige, it also houses several small shops along the central walkway.
Venetian Gondolas
Venice’s gondolas have become iconic symbols of the city. Once used as the primary mode of transportation for local residents they are now primarily used for tourism. A gondola ride offers a tranquil and scenic view of Venice’s historic canals and buildings.
ABOVE: Most Venetian gondolas are richly decorated with symbolic and traditional elements that reflect the city’s history. One of the most distinctive features is the ferro, an elegant metal ornament at the front fo the gondola shaped like an “S” that represents the Grand Canal. The ferro is topped with six forward-facing prongs that represent the city’s six sestieri (districts).
Carnival
I was lucky that my visit coincided with the start fo Carnival in Venice. The world-famous celebration is known for the elaborate masks and costumes that participants wear during the event. Carnival is usually held in the weeks leading up to Lent and lasts for about two weeks and draws visitors from around the world to participate in the various festivities held throughout the city including balls, and other cultural events.
Venetian Streets and People
One of the greatest charms of Venice is that it is void of cars. Its narrow streets, bridges and canals are perfect for exploring on foot. There are so many hidden treasures along its compact layout and hidden corners that make just wandering around endlessly rewarding.
ABOVE/BELOW: A few snapshots from my cold morning walks along the streets of Venice.
BELOW: The musician in the image is playing a theorbo, a long-necked lute from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The theorbo was popular in the 16th to 18th centuries for basso continuo and solo performances.
BELOW: I had a chance to visit the Rialto Market during one of my walks and ate a tasty “panino con porchetta” masterfully prepared by Giovani. That sandwich alone is worth the trip back to the city.
