Dear readers,

Today, we will delve into the challenges and solutions Venice faces in its eternal struggle against the waters that surround and define it. Venice, often called the Floating City, stands boldly in the middle of the lagoon, defying the laws of nature and engineering.

The story of Venice and its battle with water begins with its foundation. Built on wooden piles driven into the mud of the lagoon’s islands, Venice has endured for centuries thanks to a complex network of canals, dams, and sluice gates that regulate the tide flow and protect the city from flooding.

In recent decades, this struggle has taken on new dimensions with rising sea levels and more extreme weather events caused by climate change. In response, Venice has embarked on one of the world’s most ambitious hydraulic engineering projects: the MOSE system (Modulo Sperimentale Elettromeccanico), a series of movable barriers designed to isolate the lagoon from the sea during extremely high tides.

The MOSE system, despite controversies and delays, represents an ingenious fusion of engineering and determination, a testament to human ingenuity in protecting this world heritage site. When activated, the system is capable of raising barriers that temporarily isolate the lagoon, preventing high waters from flooding the historic city.

However, the solution is not solely technological. Venice has also seen a renewed interest in preserving its surrounding wetlands, essential for biodiversity and as a natural buffer against rising tides. These habitats are vital not only for wildlife but also as a natural barrier that absorbs the energy of tides and storms.

Every day, Venetians live and work in a delicate balance with the forces of nature. Their resilience and innovation continue to teach the world the importance of coexisting with our environment, rather than dominating it.

Keep following me to discover more stories about this incredible city.

Until our next tale