The clouds continued and the rain did not stop. The journey from Burano to the mainland was relatively short, and we got off at a stop near Piazza San Marco (st Mark's Square). Basilica San Marco (St Mark's Church) was situated next to the piazza. When there is aqua alta, the high tide, it sometimes flood St Mark's Square. Despite the heavy rain, the piazza was not flooded. Thank goodness.
St Mark's church
There are many shops along the narrow footpaths in Venice that sells many souvenirs- Murano glass, Venetian masks and leather goods. Good for browsing, window shopping and people-watching.
Masks are popular in Venice due to its centuries-old tradition. They were typical worn during the Carnevale, and it allows identities and social classes to be hidden while interactions occur. The Carnevale was brought back by the Italian government in the 1970s and is now celebrated annually.
The Rialto bridge is famous for being the first bridge to cross the Grand Canal and was bulit in 1181. However, the one you see today was built in stone in 1503. It was once a wooden bridge, and had collapsed twice in its history due to excessive weight on the bridge. Two rows of shops were also built along each side of the bridge in the 15th century, and the rent from the shops helped maintain the bridge.
More photos of Venice on this cloudy day
The rain finally stopped before we went out again in search for food. It was after all, dinner time. Vesuvio Pizzeria was recommended by Guido (the receptionist at the hotel) and I have to say, served the best pizzas of the whole trip. Thin crispy base all the way, and definitely no soggy bits. The spaghetti alla vongole was really good too.
Ristorante Vesuvio Pizzeria
Spaghetti vongole
Fried Seafood
And not forgetting dessert, the best tiramisu (lots of alcohol) and apple strudel. My only regret? Not switching my camera to macro mode when I took the photos of the dessert. Otherwise, almost a perfect day.
1 comment:
Those pics make it seem like yesterday that we were there, we also had lunch near St. Marks. This blog is good to keep track of u both. Have fun n take care, M
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