Province of Vicenza

The Grand Canal, the Grand Canal of Venice, is Venice's main waterway, along the natural waterways from St. Mark's Church to the Church of St. Chiara, in an anti-S shape, from the Roman Forum in the northwest to St. Mark's Square in the city centre. It is connected to many small canals, and most of the city's transportation passes through these waterways. Take a water bus from the Roman Forum, walk between the ancient buildings on both sides of the strait, and enjoy the river of souls of Venice, you can feel the daily life of the Venetians living on the water.

Started in the 9th Century, Basilica di San Marco's architecture shows an eastern and Byzantine influence: note the golden altarpiece and the 13th and 14th-century mosaics that illustrate the cycles of the Bible. The magnificent domes date from the 12th Century. The Basilica houses the Marciano Museum, which contains the original bronze horses, copies of which are now on the terrace. Other great artworks are located in the Pala d'Oro , along with masterpieces of Gothic gold-smithing, located just behind the altar. At hundreds of years in the making, this beautiful basilica is not just a work of art itself, but houses some of the most important works of art in the world. Step inside (though mind the dress code) to marvel at the golden altarpiece, the mosaics dating back to the 13th century and which portray the cycles of the Bible, and the jaw-dropping domes. The basilica also houses the Marciano Museum and a wonderful display of the most amazing goldsmith work of the Gothic era.

St. Mark's Square is located in the center of Venice. As one of Venice's landmark attractions, the square attracts tourists, photographers and even pigeons. St. Mark's Square has historically been the center of politics, religion and festivals in Venice. It has been the residence of the Archbishop since the 19th century and is also the venue for many Venice festivals. There are many beautiful Renaissance-style buildings around the square, such as St. Mark's Basilica, the Mint, the Governor's Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, etc. The bell tower overlooks the entire square.

There are several bridges crossing the Canal Grande but this is the oldest and most well known. Originally built of wood at the end of the 12th Century, the current one in stone, designed by Antonio da Ponte, was built 1554-1591. It is the heart of Venice to some. And until the Academia bridge was built in 1854 it was the only way to cross the Canal Grande on foot. Now you find many shops on the bridge selling all kinds of souvenirs and curiosities. Fresh fruit, vegetable and fish markets line the streets in the bustling neighborhood. There are a number of steps so those with wheelchairs or strollers should beware.