We decided to travel by train from Verona to Venice, allowing us to get comfortable in our apartment a day before our dear friends Joan and Willy joined us after concluding their cruise. Our last meeting with them was in Vannes, France, before they embarked on a cruise from Barcelona. We thought it would be enjoyable to reunite with them at the conclusion of their journey in Venice, staying together to explore the city.
Stepping out of the train station in Venice, we were immediately immersed in the enchanting atmosphere of the city. The bustling scene unfolded before us as ferry taxis gracefully glided through the iconic canals, navigating the labyrinthine waterways. The air buzzed with the hum of activity, and the distinct sounds of boat engines echoed against the centuries-old architecture.
The waterfront was a tapestry of colors, with historic buildings lining the canal, their facades reflecting in the shimmering water. As we absorbed the vibrant scene, we felt the pulse of the city resonating through the lively commotion. The distant echoes of laughter and the occasional melodic gondolier's song added to the symphony of Venice's unique soundscape. Our anticipation heightened as we embraced the captivating energy of the canal traffic, knowing that this was just the beginning of our Venetian adventure. With each passing boat and the rhythmic lapping of water against the ancient walls, we were drawn deeper into the heart of Venice, ready to explore the city's hidden gems and create lasting memories with our dear friends.
A thirty-minute ferry journey brought us to the nearest landing point for our apartment. Navigating through the labyrinthine streets proved challenging as the conventional pattern of even-numbered addresses on one side and odd numbers on the other didn't apply here. Upon reaching the canal at the end of a narrow path, we unwittingly stood by our door, which was unmarked and situated on the opposite side from the other even-numbered addresses. Fortunately, our host spotted us from the third-story window of our apartment and called out to welcome us in, rescuing us from the confusion of the unconventional address system.
In our courtyard there was a small chapel dedicated to the Virgin... It was so small that it seemed out of place... Simple, straight forward, you don't need more to thank God for being here.
We discovered the enchanting Trattoria Bandierette, one of our favorite restaurants, conveniently located near our Venice apartment. The cozy ambiance and authentic Italian cuisine made our initial visit memorable, and we later returned with friends Willy and Joan, transforming the trattoria into a cherished backdrop for shared laughter and delightful conversations. The warm glow, tantalizing aromas, and attentive staff at Trattoria Bandierette created an inviting atmosphere, allowing us to savor not only the delicious dishes and variety of beers but also the joy of friendship in the heart of Venice. It became a culinary haven where the essence of good food seamlessly blended with the celebration of lasting memories and camaraderie.
The next day, we embarked on a journey to rendezvous with our friends who were arriving in St. Mark's Square by ferry, having just completed their cruise. We chose St. Mark's Square as the rendezvous point because ferries regularly dock there. Recognizing the intricacies of Venice's labyrinthine streets from our previous day's exploration, we anticipated that guiding them directly to the apartment would be challenging, prompting us to opt for the convenience of meeting them at the easily accessible St. Mark's Square.
Navigating through the lively square, I couldn't help but be drawn to the outdoor cafés that lined the periphery, each one offering a front-row seat to the bustling activity. Pigeons gracefully glided above, adding to the timeless charm of St. Mark's. The open space was adorned with elegant lampposts and, at its center, the iconic Winged Lion monument proudly stood as a symbol of Venice's rich history and maritime prowess.
As we strolled into the expansive square, the grandeur of St. Mark's Basilica and the imposing Campanile loomed overhead, offering a breathtaking introduction to the heart of the city. The intricate details of the architecture, from the Byzantine mosaics to the ornate facades of surrounding buildings, created a visual feast. The rhythmic sounds of footsteps on the worn cobblestones echoed in harmony with the occasional chiming of the Campanile's bells.
As we explored the square, we couldn't help but appreciate the architectural integration of the Bell Tower, standing as both a functional timekeeping structure and a symbol of civic pride. Its unobtrusive yet commanding presence contributes to the timeless allure of St. Mark's Square, making it a central and indispensable element in the city's captivating tapestry of history and culture. Its lofty presence adds a vertical dimension to the square, accentuating the open space and providing a focal point and the square's ambiance is enriched by the periodic chimes of the Campanile's bells, marking the passage of time and contributing to the distinctive soundscape of St. Mark's.
Looking to the left of the Basilica our attention was immediately drawn to the majestic Clock Tower, standing proudly on one side of the historic square. This medieval timepiece, known as the Torre dell'Orologio, seemed to transcend centuries as it commanded attention with its ornate facade and intricate astronomical clock. As we neared the base of the tower, the exquisite details became more apparent – the golden embellishments, the zodiac signs, and the figures of the Magi, each contributing to the masterpiece that is the clock. The two bronze figures, known as the Moors, struck the hours on a bell, adding a melodic touch to the bustling surroundings. We took a moment to admire the intricate mechanisms through the tower's windows, marveling at the craftsmanship that has stood the test of time.
Upon our arrival of the waterfront in front of St. Mark's square we were amazed at all the people and the number of ferry and boat terminals that are along the river. Also we didn't know if they were taking a private Taxi or one of the ferrys. We soon realized that finding our friends would be a challenge, so we instructed them to meet us at the Columns of San Marco and San Todaro.
There is a superstition about bad luck from passing between the two columns, that originated from the historical practice of executing criminals and wrongdoers between the columns during the medieval period. Consequently, locals believe that walking through the space between these columns invites bad luck or misfortune. As a result, visitors and even Venetians often choose to circumvent the columns, taking an alternate route to avoid tempting fate and respecting the age-old superstition embedded in the rich tapestry of Venetian culture. We had good luck and easily connected with our friends as we explored St. Mark's Square together before winding our way across Venice to our Apartment.
Approaching the Rialto Bridge in Venice felt like stepping into a living canvas where history and art converged. The bridge, a masterpiece built in the late 16th century, gracefully arched over the Grand Canal, creating a breathtaking panorama of Venetian charm. As we ascended its stone steps, the lively market atmosphere unfolded beneath the central portico, beckoning us to explore the rows of shops and market stalls that lined the passage.
From the bridge's vantage point, the Grand Canal revealed its vibrant energy, with gondolas gliding gracefully through the water and the hum of water taxis echoing in the air. The intricate details of the Rialto Bridge, from its ornate balustrades to the architectural embellishments, seemed to tell stories of centuries past.
As we wandered through the narrow streets and canals of Venice, it struck me that the seamless coexistence of these elements wasn't merely a spatial arrangement but a fundamental part of Venetian identity. There was an unmistakable sense of intimacy and interconnectedness, where the urban landscape and waterways merged to craft the enchanting character that defines this city. With every step, it felt like embarking on a journey through time, uncovering hidden wonders tucked away in the labyrinth of passages and along the tranquil canals. Venice, in its unique blend of streets and water, became a captivating tapestry of discovery and a personal exploration of its rich history and charm.
Venice at night is a mesmerizing symphony of charm, mystery, and timeless beauty. As the sun dips below the horizon, the city undergoes a magical transformation, revealing a side that is both romantic and evocative. The narrow streets, once bustling with the energy of the day, become quiet pathways bathed in the warm glow of streetlights, casting enchanting shadows on the ancient facades. Venice at night is a mesmerizing symphony of charm, mystery, and timeless beauty. As the sun dips below the horizon, the city undergoes a magical transformation, revealing a side that is both romantic and evocative. The narrow streets, once bustling with the energy of the day, become quiet pathways bathed in the warm glow of streetlights, casting enchanting shadows on the ancient facades.
One of the most captivating elements of Venice at night is the reflection of lights on the tranquil canals. The dark waters mirror the shimmering glow of lampposts, creating a dreamlike aquatic ballet. Gliding gondolas, adorned with soft lanterns, silently navigate the waterways, their rhythmic paddles creating ripples that catch the ambient light.
As the night progresses, hidden corners and picturesque bridges beckon exploration. Venice's intimate squares, often quiet during the day, become gathering spots for locals and visitors to share moments of camaraderie. Live music from quaint cafes drifts through the air, adding to the overall sensory tapestry.
Landmarks such as St. Mark's Basilica and the Rialto Bridge emerge as illuminated masterpieces against the night sky. These architectural marvels, steeped in history, take on an ethereal quality, and the city's iconic squares come alive with a subdued vibrancy. The occasional echo of footsteps on cobblestone streets adds to the intimate nocturnal ambiance, creating an atmosphere that feels suspended in time.
MURANO ISLAND
The next day we went back to St. Mark's Square to take a ferry to tour Murano, Borano, and Torcello Islands. On our way to catch the boat we passed by the Bridge og Sighs. The Bridge of Sighs in Venice, named for the sighs of prisoners crossing from the Doge's Palace to adjacent prisons, is an iconic 17th-century limestone bridge. Its Baroque design spans the Rio di Palazzo, connecting interrogation rooms to prison cells.
Legend has it that the view from the bridge, though tragic for prisoners, offers a last glimpse of Venice's serene beauty before captivity. Today, it stands as a poignant symbol of the city's history, blending tales of justice and sorrow with architectural splendor.
We boarded our boat and set out for our initial destination, Murano Island. En route, we enjoyed captivating views of Venice's beautiful skylines. A notable highlight of our journey was passing by the latest addition to the Venice Canals – the "Giant Hands Spread Message of Unity," a creation by Lorenzo Quinn.
As the boat glides over the serene waters of the Venetian lagoon, the distinct character of Murano begins to unfold. Traditional buildings with vibrant facades line the waterfront, reflecting in the gentle ripples of the canal. The quaint island, renowned for its glassmaking heritage, welcomes visitors with an air of artistic allure.
Stepping off the boat, we enter a warehouse room with circular platform seating surrounding an area housing a kiln and a working space where a skilled glassblower conducts their craft. Here, we are treated to a mesmerizing demonstration showcasing their artistry and expertise.
Watching the process of crafting a vase was a delicate dance of skill and precision. Witnessing the artistry of the glassblower was like observing a symphony of creativity and tradition. Each delicate step in the process contributed to the birth of a unique piece, a testament to the unparalleled craftsmanship that make Murano's glassmaking special.
After the demonstration concluded, we left the exhibition area and entered the shop, where a vibrant array of items crafted by the skilled artisans awaited us in a dazzling display of colorful glass.
BURANO ISLAND
Back on the sea, en route to Burano, we enjoyed the pleasant weather with our companions. The sky was clear, the sun shining, and a gentle breeze accompanied us. The journey became a simple but delightful experience, with the soothing sounds of the waves and the easy camaraderie of our fellow travelers adding to the overall enjoyment of the trip.
As we arrived on this picturesque island, the vividly painted houses lining the canals immediately caught our eye, creating a whimsical and lively atmosphere. Wandering through the narrow streets, each building seemed to compete for attention with its unique palette, forming a captivating mosaic of colors.
The joy of exploring Burano extended beyond its colorful façade. Quaint squares, adorned with blooming flowers and cozy cafes, invited us to savor the relaxed pace of island life. The intricate lace shops, a hallmark of Burano's artisanal heritage, showcased delicate creations that added a touch of elegance to the lively streets.
Strolling through the charming shops on Torcello, we were drawn to the delicate lace boutiques that adorned the tranquil streets. The intricate patterns and timeless elegance of Venetian lace showcased in the displays resonated with the island's cultural heritage. Amidst these treasures, we stumbled upon a whimsically crafted Venetian duck, vibrant in color and rich in detail—a perfect addition to Mary Kay's collection of travel souvenirs.
Strolling along the canals, we discovered charming bridges offering stunning views of the waterways and the eclectic architecture. The rhythmic lapping of the water against the boats and the melodic chatter of locals created a harmonious backdrop, adding to the overall enchantment of the experience.
Choosing Burano for a lunch stop at an al fresco cafe along the canal banks felt just right. The scene before us mirrored the idyllic postcards and drawings capturing the essence of Venice – pastel-colored buildings, gondolas gracefully navigating the canals beneath ornate bridges. Sipping cocktails with Willy and Joan, we found ourselves reminiscing about the shared adventures we experienced together in France.
TORCELLO, ISLAND
Back on the boat to travel to our last Island destination Torcello, a tranquil oasis in the Venetian Lagoon, that beckons with a sense of timeless serenity and historical richness. This secluded island, was a stark contrast to the bustling energy of nearby Venice, Burano and Murano.
Stepping onto Torcello feels like entering a living museum of ancient architecture and lush nature. Devil's Bridge, provides a picturesque crossing over the water, leading to the Locanda Cipriani, a historic inn. The inn, nestled in lush greenery, offers a delightful retreat where one can savor the island's tranquility.
The centerpiece is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, a marvel of Byzantine art adorned with captivating mosaics that narrate religious stories in vibrant colors. The nearby Church of Santa Fosca, with its elegant columns and harmonious design, complements the cathedral, creating a captivating spiritual ambiance.
The interior of the Church of Santa Fosca on Torcello Island exudes an elegant simplicity and a serene spiritual atmosphere. The church, with its central nave and two side aisles, features gracefully proportioned columns that create a harmonious and balanced space. The muted tones of the stone walls and columns contribute to a sense of quiet contemplation.
Visiting Torcello felt like stepping into a haven of tranquility where time slowed, and the modern world faded away. As we wandered through its quiet streets, the subtle murmur of the canal waters and the rustling of leaves became the soundtrack to a serene journey through history. The island's atmosphere, marked by overgrown greenery and charming cottages, created an idyllic backdrop for reflection. It was the perfect end to an interesting and fulfilling journey.