5 Days in Venice With an Archaeologist. Canals, Bridges, Art, and Carnival!

1. Welcome to Venice. Let's learn about the fascinating history of this city of islands, bridges, and the most confusing street plan in Europe! Getting lost in Venice is part of the fun, but I know the way. We will visit St. Marks Basilica and its treasures. See the Bridge of Sighs and the famous Rialto Bridge.  We will also learn about the 'aqua alta', the damaging high tides that flood Venice, the damage they cause, and the interesting ways that Venetians have adapted to still get around the city during the aqua alta.  Finally, let's learn about the long term effects of over-tourism and cruise ships on this delicate city.

2.  Canals, Bridges, and tiny hidden streets! Who can possibly find their way through this city. No cars or bikes allowed, everyone moves by foot or boat. Also we will see the unique ways that Venetians can buy their fresh food- ever consider your local fruit vendor is actually on a boat?! Let's peek into some of the hidden piazzas, bridges, and architecturally fascinating palazzos. Venice is filled with bell towers as well.. but not many of them are straight. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is not the only leaning tower in Italy! Finally we will learn how Venice was built on the hundreds of little islands and how the medieval and renaissance construction is still holding up today, even under water.

3.  How is the famous Venetian colorful glass made? Let's take a quick sail across the Adriatic and visit the island of the glass-makers, Murano. We will explore this tiny island, watch the glass blowers perform their art, and learn  few of the tricks of the trade. When we head back to Venice, we will need a snack- so let's visit a few of my favorite places to try a gondola shaped pizza, decadent pastries, and even a trip to the famous fish markets- where Venetian fisherman sell their fresh catches each morning. It's just behind the Rialto bridge, but tourists rarely make it there. 

4. Inside the Doge's palace. Who was the Doge and what was his role in Venice? Venice has a completely different form of government then the rest of Italy's cities and we will learn about the interesting, yet confining role of the Doge.  Let's explore the beautiful palace of the Doge where we will visit a special exhibition of Renaissance paintings, learn about the daily life if the Venetian elite, and visit the rooms of the leaders of Venice over hundreds of years. As we exit the palace we can explore the main piazza of Venice, its famous bell tower, and the unique and crazy things that tourist get up to. Finally we will learn about the important festivals, executions, and events that happened in this piazza.

5. Carnivale on the Grand Canal! This is an excellent way to end the week. If you have a mask, this is the day to wear it. Come with me as we learn the history of this festival, how it was celebrated in the past and why it was also illegal for a period of time. But don't worry Carnivale is celebrated in Venice in our time period and it's uper fun!  We will go visit a few mask and costume stores and learn how these unique and sometimes outlandish masks and costumes are made, some of the stories behind certain costumes, and finally go into a Venetian Carnivale Ball. Let's vote for best mask and costume! 

I am so excited for you to join me in Venice. I love this city and I am looking forward to returning, virtually, with you. Please bring your curiosity, I love questions.