Venice

 

Venice is a small town (city?) with so many fascinating things to see. Historically, it was the capital of an independent nation. The Republic of Venice was a major maritime power during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, and a staging area for the Crusades and the Battle of Lepanto, as well as a very important center of commerce (especially silk, grain and spice trade) and art in the 13th century up to the end of the 17th century. This made Venice an extremely wealthy city throughout most of its history. It is also known for its several considerable artistic achievements and is home to famous musician Antonio Vivaldi and explorer Marco Polo.

Back when it was its own country, it's leader - the Doge - lived in this magnificent palace:

It even had its own jail:

There is no automobile traffic in Venice because the entire city is built on water.  So the only way to get around is on foot through these narrow paths,

or by boat.  Right to the doorstep:

No cars meant the city was unusually quiet and we really enjoyed that.  Combined with the beautiful water ways and exquisite architecture, it was the perfect setting for romantic dinners in outdoor cafes and long walks.  Is this getting too mushy?  Well, Venice is often called "the most romantic city in Europe."

Where the sidewalk ends:

The water might look inviting, but we learned (via our handy tour book on the train) that Venice does not have a modern sewer system.  They still dump all their waste into the water.  (So we didn't go swimming).

At Piazza San Marco we explored the basilica... and dodged pigeons in the square (wretched creatures!).

What can I say?

We had seen a lot of naked statues after a week of touring museums in Italy. We were tired. We got a bit silly...