The City of Water

Venice is the setting of children's dreams, I have decided. I remember reading enchanting picture books of this land far away, where the streets flow with water and, Italian children, who get to eat pasta every night, travel in boats to school rather than ordinary cars. My children's response to Venice was the same. When I explained what we were about to experience, Ezra looked mystified. "Wait! There are no cars? The roads are water? Ooohh!"Of course these dreams of Venice never go away, with her streets filled with back packers, cruisers and romantics. Venice was a mercantile power from the Middle Ages until it was invaded by Neopolean. Her history is one of wealth, resluting in esquisite architecture with ornate Venitian Gothic buildings. We began our visit in San Marco's Square, the social, religious and political center of the city. 

We took a tour of the Doge's palace which was not only the home of the supreme ruling power in Venice from the late 1300's to the 1780's, but also the seat of government for the area, complete with a court and a jail.

 

 

We took a gondola ride which was both enjoyable and educational. The gondolier filled us in on life in Venice, history and geography. There are 118 islands which make up Venice. Each building was originally built on the island atop wooden planks. Over time, these planks have marbalized, resulting in a solid foundation for Venice's treasured buildings. Boats are taxed by their size, and it can take years to secure a permanant docking site for a boat.

We walked along the Grand Canal, enthralled by this busy throughfare. 

We also thought that the neighboring islands were just as picturesque as Venice itself.

Murano was the only island that we had time to visit. Murano is known for its famous glass blowers. We toured galleries and workshops and then strolled the streets looking for a few souveniors. I ended up with a pair of glass earings and the girls bought Murano glass necklaces. 

Our favorite part of our time in Venice was simply wandering the alley ways, crossing one bridge after another, lost in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The crowds left in the late afternoon, and we had two evenings to ourselves to explore this city of water.

We ended our visit to Venice by wandering back through San Marco's Square. With a little time and a bit of energy, we played a game of Simon Says. I love spontaneous fun, especially when it involves my children. It was the most delightful end to the perfect day.