Venice is one of the most mysterious and fascinating cities in Italy. Built in a lagoon just off the north eastern coast of Italy, the city has captured the imagination of visitors for more than a thousand years. The city is built on a series of slowly sinking islands, and rather than traditional roads, it is connected by a series of canals. In fact, no cars are allowed in Venice proper; all delivery and transportation is done either via boat or on foot. Venice's long history as one of the richest and most powerful cities in Italy has left it with a wealth of attractions for contemporary visitors. From grand churches, romantic canals and palaces, there is something here to enchant any tourist.

Piazza San Marco (St. Mark's Square)

The Piazza San Marco is the main square in Venice, and the waterfront portion was originally the most popular entrance to the city before the rail and car bridge from the mainland. The piazza is a popular place for both locals and tourists; outdoor cafes line the square and feature live music in the evenings. The Campanile (bell tower) is open to tourists and has excellent views of the city and the sea. In addition, two of the biggest tourist attractions in the city are on the piazza, Basilica di San Marco and the Palazzo Ducale.

Basilica di San Marco (St. Mark's Basilica)

The Basilica di San Marco ( is located at the eastern edge of the Piazza San Marco and is named for Venice's patron saint. The church's ornate marble façade is one of the major symbols of Venice, and the gilded interior has earned it the nickname of the golden church. Its construction began in the 11th century and the style of both the interior and exterior were heavily influenced by the Byzantines to the east of Venice. The basilica has a wide variety of treasures on display, some of which are religiously significant and some simply plunder from the Crusades and various wars.

Canal Grande (The Grand Canal)

Venice's Grand Canal winds through the city from the Piazza San Marco to the train station in the west. It has been Venice's main thoroughfare for hundreds of years, and numerous palaces, grand churches, governmental buildings and museums line its banks. While many tourists explore the canal by gondola, a much more cost-effective way to see it is via vaporetto, which is basically a water taxi and one of the main forms of transportation throughout the city.

Palazzo Ducale (Doge's Palace)

For more than a thousand years, Venice was ruled by Ducale, who were doges elected to the post of leader for life. The Palazzo Ducale ( was their official residence and is at the opposite end of the Piazza San Marco from the Basilica. The 15th century-era palace is open to the public for tours on a daily basis. The palace has ornate interiors and grand architecture, with many of its ceilings painted by Italian masters including Titian, Carpaccio and Tintoretto.

About the Author

Based in New York City, Virginia Watson has been writing and editing professionally since 2004. Her work has appeared in magazines including "The Roanoker Magazine," "Blue Ridge Country," "Pinnacle Living" and the award-winning "Virginia State Travel Guide." Watson holds a Master of Arts in philosophy of education from Virginia Polytechnic and State University.

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