Page 35 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Venice & The Veneto

A POR TR AIT OF THE VENE T O  33

Upper Reaches of the
Grand Canal facing
Santa Croce (c.1740s) is
a striking painting by
Bellotto that captures
the everyday life of
gondoliers and their
craft. Since they were
first recorded in 1094,
gondolas have inspired
many writers, artists
and musicians.

Races and parades are part of the fun
during Venice regattas. Professional
gondoliers race in pairs or in teams of
six, using boats specially designed for
competition. Many amateur gondoliers
also participate in the events.

The ferro serves to
balance the weight of
the rower. Its metal
teeth symbolize the six
Seven layers of black lacquer sestieri of Venice,
give the gondola its gloss. beneath a doge’s cap.

The main frame is
built of oak.

More than 280
separate pieces
of wood are used Mooring posts and channel
in constructing markers feature prominently
a gondola. in the crowded waterways of
Venice. The posts may be
topped with a family crest, to
indicate a private mooring.

Funeral gondola approaching San Michele (see p157) Wedding gondola

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