One of the most exciting attractions one can think of in the world is the canals of Venice. People think of them in romantic terms as some of the more unique curios created by man to date. But how did they come into existence, and why?
Centuries ago, Italians chose to settle on a group of islands located in a lagoon. This migration occurred around the sixth century, and the town was called Venice after the Veneti people who originally lived in the area centuries before.
Venice became a major financial and cultural center before long. As it prospered, it built its architecture upon its islands and created canals as connections. Venice has around 25 miles of canals, all connected to one central channel called the Grand Canal.
For many years, there was no way to enter Venice besides through the Adriatic Sea, which connects the Grand Canal. Nowadays, there is a railroad, and one can take a train to Venice or drive and park outside of the city.
But to get around Venice, you either need to walk, bicycle, or take a gondola through a canal. One hundred seventy-seven channels flow through Venice, and Venice is the only major city in the world with no trucks or cars.
Venice does not allow large cruise ships because the canals cannot handle their girth. But some of the smaller boats are allowed for now, and if you are planning a trip to Venice soon, it might be worth asking a travel agent if cruises exist.
Besides the gondolas, the canals of Venice use taxis and water buses to help people get around. Indeed, one can swim in a channel, but there is a risk of pollution and waste, so it is not a good idea.