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The Laguna
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When referring to the Laguna, one immediately conjures up Venice and its historical centre, setting aside the extended ecosystem it find itself in, behind the protective barriers of the Lido and extending all the way to Jesolo and Caposile, where the tides Never reach. This itinerary does a few stops at evocative locations and tries to convey a better understanding of this basin which is a delta to six rivers, whose courses were modified by the Venitian Republic's administration entirely dedicated to this matter, the Magistratura alle Acque. |
| Burano |
This town is set upon four smaller islands. It maintains the genuineness of a fishermen's village, with the added pizzazz of homes in solid, vivid colours. The important monuments include the oratory of S. Barbara, the church of S. Martino and the gothic palazzo del Podestà.
On your way to Torcello, it is interesting to note the environmental caracteristic of the laguna: tiny strips of land barely breaking the waterline. |
| Torcello |
 This area was home to the first human settlements, being well inside the laguna and thus difficult to reach with normal boats.
The city bears its name from the fact that it was erected with protective walls and towers - Turricellum. This was an important centre of activity during the Middle Ages, but gradually lost favour with the increasing importance of Venice. Of particular note is the enchanting romanic church of S. Fosca a Torcello (XIth century), whereas the catehdral is decorated with numerous paintings and mosaics. The archeological artifacts, ranging from Antiquity to the works of Venitian goldsmiths are on show in the town museum. |
| Murano |
 Not too distant from Venice is Murano. Which immediately conjures up glass works; they are well documented, spanning the entire period between the Roman Empire to comtemporary works. Unavoidable, for both its beauty and impact is the church of saints Maria & Donato. The majestuous temple is in direct contrast to the placid waters of surrounding canals and the quiet early morning atmospheres that can be found here. The elegance is maintained inside through the presence of many mosaics and distinct tonal design. A worthy stopover: the church of S. Pietro Martire, mainly for the paintings it houses. |
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