SHARE TRAVEL NEWS: When you visit Venice you will Fall in love with the city

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Although our visit to Venice coincided with George Clooney’s much-hyped wedding there, we didn’t get to see it… or him. However, Venice didn’t need George Clooney or anyone else to lend it any stardust – it had enough magic of its own. In accordance with the title La Serenissima (the most serene), one of its many lovingly-bestowed appellations, Venice is renowned for being one of the most romantic cities in the world. The beauty of its setting, its unique architectural style, and the car-free cobblestone alleys with history emanating from every stone, all contribute to its charm. Children laugh and play in the large campos (public squares) and cavalier gondoliers row through the narrow canals in their ornate black and gold gondolas, as their guests take endless selfies. Every scene seems to have arisen from an artist’s brush and every corner presents a photo opportunity. It is easy to see why millions are drawn in every year by the allure of the city. However, Venice wasn’t always so serene.

Three hundred years ago, Venice was a playground for the affluent from around the world. It was notorious for its flamboyant nature, feverish hedonism and excessive debauchery with Venetian nobles and visitors seeking pleasure in gambling, endless parties and carnivals. For a while, many of Venice’s residents wore their masks at all times in public to keep their identities and escapades hidden. It was during this time that Casanova and his exploits became famous. This was also the beginning of the decline of the Venetian empire with its long and colourful history starting in 421AD during which it was attacked by invaders, and devastated by plagues and fires but during which it also captured the imagination of the world. In 1866, Venice became part of the Kingdom of Italy…and it continued to capture the world’s imagination...... keep reading .... http://stfi.re/jovxgzb