Venice is one of the most unique cities in the world, known for its canals, stunning architecture, and centuries of history. If you’ve spent much time there, you may think you know a lot of Venice Italy facts. But you (probably) know less than you think!
Venice is so unique that it’s been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. But beyond the gondolas and famous landmarks, there’s a fascinating side of the city that many visitors don’t know.
For example, did you know it’s illegal to feed the pigeons in Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square)? If you do, you can be fined €50-€200!
From hidden islands to surprising laws, here are 10 Venice Italy facts that will give you a new perspective on this incredible destination.
1. Venice is made up of 118 Islands and over 150 canals
Venice isn’t just one big island. It’s a collection of 118 small islands connected by more than 150 canals. Every time you cross a bridge, you’re actually stepping onto a new island.
There are several large, well-known islands that are part of the city. Murano, home of Murano glass, has been known for its Venetian glass production since the 13th century. Burano is known for its lace and colorful houses. Lido is the only island in the city with roads and cars.
Sant’Erasmo is the second largest island in the Venice lagoon and is entirely agricultural. Artichokes, chicory, and grapes for prosecco are all grown on the island. Much of the produce is used by local restaurants or sold in Venetian markets.
One island even serves as the city’s cemetery. San Michele, once a monastery and later a prison, has been Venice’s official cemetery since 1807. Visitors are welcome, but it’s important to be respectful.
Torcello is one of Venice’s quietest islands. It houses a church built by the Romans around 500 AD, which pre-dates the city of Venice. It’s home to approximately 12 residents
Read more about our visit to Torcello here.
2. Venice is built on wood
Nicknamed “The Floating City,” Venice doesn’t actually float. The islands beneath the city weren’t stable enough for construction, so early Venetians drove thousands of wooden pilings into the muddy ground to create a solid foundation. Over time, the wood petrified.
These pilings still support Venice’s buildings today.
3. Cars and buses exist in Venice, but only on Lido
Most of Venice is car-free. The Venice canals are the “streets”. But Lido, a long island that acts as a barrier between the lagoon and the Adriatic Sea, has regular streets, cars, and even buses.
Car ferries run between Lido and the mainland, which is why you might spot one while strolling along the Giudecca Canal.
4. Gondolas must be painted black by law
Today, about 400 gondolas glide through Venice’s canals, a fraction of the 10,000 that once filled the waterways.
In the past, noble families used gondolas as status symbols, decorating them with extravagant designs. To curb excess, a law was passed in the 17th century requiring all gondolas to be painted black. This law is still in effect today.
Each gondola takes about two months to build. It measures 35 feet long, weighs 1,100 pounds, and is covered with six coats of black paint. Though they may look similar at first glance, gondoliers personalize their boats with unique upholstery, colors, decorations, and small embellishments.
Want to become a gondolier? It’s not easy. Only a few new licenses are issued each year. Applicants must complete 400 hours of training, an apprenticeship, and a final exam.
5. Venice has 391 bridges – and 72 are private
Venice’s 391 bridges connect the city, but not all of them are public. Seventy-two private bridges lead directly to homes or businesses. This means if you buy a property with a private bridge, the bridge comes with it.
Only four bridges cross the Canal Grande (Grand Canal). The iconic Rialto Bridge in central Venice is one of only four bridges in Europe with shops on both sides. The others are Florence’s Ponte Vecchio, Bath’s Pulteney Bridge in the UK, and Erfurt’s Krämerbrücke in Germany.
The other bridges across the Grand Canal are the wooden Ponte dell’Accademia (the Academy bridge), the Ponte degli Scalzi and Ponte della Costituzione.
If you aren’t near a bridge to cross the Grand Canal, look for a “Traghetto” sign. Traghetti are shared gondola ferries that carry passengers across the Grand Canal for about one euro. Instead of sitting inside the gondola, you sit along the edge. Two gondoliers man the boat, one at the front and one at the back.
If you take a traghetto and are traveling with someone else, do everyone a favor and sit across from each other. The boats need to stay balanced. Unsuspecting tourists who try to sit on the same side will tip the boat dramatically. It’s quite nerve wracking for everyone on board!
6. St. Mark’s bell tower is a replica
The towering Campanile di San Marco looks like an ancient landmark. Landmark…yes. Ancient…no.
The original 16th century tower collapsed in 1902. The bell tower that stands in the piazza today is an exact replica, completed in 1912.
One of its bells is original. The rest are replicas as the originals were destroyed when the tower collapsed.
At 323 feet tall, it’s the tallest structure in Venice!
Climbing it offers incredible views of St. Mark’s Square, Basilica San Marco (St Marks Basilica, the church dedicated to Saint Mark, the patron saint of the city), the Doges Palace, the Grand Canal, and the Venetian Lagoon.
7. Venice was an independent republic for over 1,100 years
Venice was once a powerful maritime republic, known as La Serenissima, or “The Serene Republic of Venice.” It thrived from 697 AD to 1797 before Napoleon conquered the city. It became part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1866.
Venice’s deep connection with the Byzantine empire, or Eastern Roman Empire, shaped it in many ways. Its influence can be seen from the architecture of structures like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace to how the city itself is organized.
In the 11th century, Venice was given the ability to trade freely throughout the Byzantine Empire. This marked the beginning of Venetian trade in the far East. As a result, the city became a major trade hub between Europe and Asia.
Venetian merchant Marco Polo played a key role in introducing Europe to the Silk Road and the riches of China in the late 13th century. He gave many Europeans their first look into the cultures of China, Persia, India and Japan in his book “The Travels of Marco Polo”.
At its height in the 14th century, Venice controlled territories across modern-day Croatia, Greece, Montenegro, and Albania as well as the island of Cyprus.
8. The most ornate side of buildings faces the canals
Many of Venice’s grand palazzos seem surprisingly plain from the streets. That’s because the most elaborate facades face the canals, not the pedestrian pathways.
Nobles and wealthy merchants traveled by private gondolas and entered their homes through lavish water doors. Streets were primarily used by commoners and household staff, so little effort was put into decorating their sides of the buildings.
9. Venice invented quarantine
Venice was a global trading hub, but with international ships came the risk of disease. To protect the city, the Venetian Republic introduced quarantine in 1248.
New arrivals had to remain on an isolated island for quaranta giorni (40 days) to ensure they weren’t carrying the plague. This practice led to the modern term quarantine.
10. Venice has its own language
Venetians don’t just speak Italian. They have their own language. Linguists are still uncertain if Venetian is a dialect of Italian or if it’s actually a separate language.
Venetian has a lot of Latin influence but incorporates Greek and Arabic roots due to the influence of centuries of trade.
Though Italian is the official language, Venetian is still spoken among locals. Speaking and understanding it is a point of pride for native Venetians and helps distinguish them from the rest of the population.
The Bottom Line: Venice, Italy facts
Venice is full of history, secrets, and surprises. Whether you visit for a day or a week, every canal and alleyway reveals something new.
From its hidden islands to its legendary past, these Venice Italy facts show why the city remains one of the most fascinating places in the world.
Looking for more travel inspiration? Read more Venice blog posts or all Italy travel blog posts here.
Venice is one of the most unique cities in the world, known for its canals, stunning architecture, and centuries of history. If you’ve spent much time there, you may think you know a lot of Venice Italy facts. But you (probably) know less than you think!
Venice is so unique that it’s been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. But beyond the gondolas and famous landmarks, there’s a fascinating side of the city that many visitors don’t know.
For example, did you know it’s illegal to feed the pigeons in Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square)? If you do, you can be fined €50-€200!
From hidden islands to surprising laws, here are 10 Venice Italy facts that will give you a new perspective on this incredible destination.
1. Venice is made up of 118 Islands and over 150 canals
Venice isn’t just one big island. It’s a collection of 118 small islands connected by more than 150 canals. Every time you cross a bridge, you’re actually stepping onto a new island.
There are several large, well-known islands that are part of the city. Murano, home of Murano glass, has been known for its Venetian glass production since the 13th century. Burano is known for its lace and colorful houses. Lido is the only island in the city with roads and cars.
Sant’Erasmo is the second largest island in the Venice lagoon and is entirely agricultural. Artichokes, chicory, and grapes for prosecco are all grown on the island. Much of the produce is used by local restaurants or sold in Venetian markets.
One island even serves as the city’s cemetery. San Michele, once a monastery and later a prison, has been Venice’s official cemetery since 1807. Visitors are welcome, but it’s important to be respectful.
Torcello is one of Venice’s quietest islands. It houses a church built by the Romans around 500 AD, which pre-dates the city of Venice. It’s home to approximately 12 residents
Read more about our visit to Torcello here.
2. Venice is built on wood
Nicknamed “The Floating City,” Venice doesn’t actually float. The islands beneath the city weren’t stable enough for construction, so early Venetians drove thousands of wooden pilings into the muddy ground to create a solid foundation. Over time, the wood petrified.
These pilings still support Venice’s buildings today.
3. Cars and buses exist in Venice, but only on Lido
Most of Venice is car-free. The Venice canals are the “streets”. But Lido, a long island that acts as a barrier between the lagoon and the Adriatic Sea, has regular streets, cars, and even buses.
Car ferries run between Lido and the mainland, which is why you might spot one while strolling along the Giudecca Canal.
4. Gondolas must be painted black by law
Today, about 400 gondolas glide through Venice’s canals, a fraction of the 10,000 that once filled the waterways.
In the past, noble families used gondolas as status symbols, decorating them with extravagant designs. To curb excess, a law was passed in the 17th century requiring all gondolas to be painted black. This law is still in effect today.
Each gondola takes about two months to build. It measures 35 feet long, weighs 1,100 pounds, and is covered with six coats of black paint. Though they may look similar at first glance, gondoliers personalize their boats with unique upholstery, colors, decorations, and small embellishments.
Want to become a gondolier? It’s not easy. Only a few new licenses are issued each year. Applicants must complete 400 hours of training, an apprenticeship, and a final exam.
5. Venice has 391 bridges – and 72 are private
Venice’s 391 bridges connect the city, but not all of them are public. Seventy-two private bridges lead directly to homes or businesses. This means if you buy a property with a private bridge, the bridge comes with it.
Only four bridges cross the Canal Grande (Grand Canal). The iconic Rialto Bridge in central Venice is one of only four bridges in Europe with shops on both sides. The others are Florence’s Ponte Vecchio, Bath’s Pulteney Bridge in the UK, and Erfurt’s Krämerbrücke in Germany.
The other bridges across the Grand Canal are the wooden Ponte dell’Accademia (the Academy bridge), the Ponte degli Scalzi and Ponte della Costituzione.
If you aren’t near a bridge to cross the Grand Canal, look for a “Traghetto” sign. Traghetti are shared gondola ferries that carry passengers across the Grand Canal for about one euro. Instead of sitting inside the gondola, you sit along the edge. Two gondoliers man the boat, one at the front and one at the back.
If you take a traghetto and are traveling with someone else, do everyone a favor and sit across from each other. The boats need to stay balanced. Unsuspecting tourists who try to sit on the same side will tip the boat dramatically. It’s quite nerve wracking for everyone on board!
6. St. Mark’s bell tower is a replica
The towering Campanile di San Marco looks like an ancient landmark. Landmark…yes. Ancient…no.
The original 16th century tower collapsed in 1902. The bell tower that stands in the piazza today is an exact replica, completed in 1912.
One of its bells is original. The rest are replicas as the originals were destroyed when the tower collapsed.
At 323 feet tall, it’s the tallest structure in Venice!
Climbing it offers incredible views of St. Mark’s Square, Basilica San Marco (St Marks Basilica, the church dedicated to Saint Mark, the patron saint of the city), the Doges Palace, the Grand Canal, and the Venetian Lagoon.
7. Venice was an independent republic for over 1,100 years
Venice was once a powerful maritime republic, known as La Serenissima, or “The Serene Republic of Venice.” It thrived from 697 AD to 1797 before Napoleon conquered the city. It became part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1866.
Venice’s deep connection with the Byzantine empire, or Eastern Roman Empire, shaped it in many ways. Its influence can be seen from the architecture of structures like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace to how the city itself is organized.
In the 11th century, Venice was given the ability to trade freely throughout the Byzantine Empire. This marked the beginning of Venetian trade in the far East. As a result, the city became a major trade hub between Europe and Asia.
Venetian merchant Marco Polo played a key role in introducing Europe to the Silk Road and the riches of China in the late 13th century. He gave many Europeans their first look into the cultures of China, Persia, India and Japan in his book “The Travels of Marco Polo”.
At its height in the 14th century, Venice controlled territories across modern-day Croatia, Greece, Montenegro, and Albania as well as the island of Cyprus.
8. The most ornate side of buildings faces the canals
Many of Venice’s grand palazzos seem surprisingly plain from the streets. That’s because the most elaborate facades face the canals, not the pedestrian pathways.
Nobles and wealthy merchants traveled by private gondolas and entered their homes through lavish water doors. Streets were primarily used by commoners and household staff, so little effort was put into decorating their sides of the buildings.
9. Venice invented quarantine
Venice was a global trading hub, but with international ships came the risk of disease. To protect the city, the Venetian Republic introduced quarantine in 1248.
New arrivals had to remain on an isolated island for quaranta giorni (40 days) to ensure they weren’t carrying the plague. This practice led to the modern term quarantine.
10. Venice has its own language
Venetians don’t just speak Italian. They have their own language. Linguists are still uncertain if Venetian is a dialect of Italian or if it’s actually a separate language.
Venetian has a lot of Latin influence but incorporates Greek and Arabic roots due to the influence of centuries of trade.
Though Italian is the official language, Venetian is still spoken among locals. Speaking and understanding it is a point of pride for native Venetians and helps distinguish them from the rest of the population.
The Bottom Line: Venice, Italy facts
Venice is full of history, secrets, and surprises. Whether you visit for a day or a week, every canal and alleyway reveals something new.
From its hidden islands to its legendary past, these Venice Italy facts show why the city remains one of the most fascinating places in the world.
Looking for more travel inspiration? Read more Venice blog posts or all Italy travel blog posts here.
