Dear readers,

Join me on a journey to the heart of Venetian artisanal tradition, where the art of boatbuilding has been passed down through generations, preserving a heritage of skill and passion that defines Venice as much as its canals.

The squero, the Venetian boatyard, is where the vessels that characterize the city’s canals are born. Among these, the most iconic is undoubtedly the gondola, whose sleek and elegant silhouette is recognized worldwide. Building a gondola requires not only technical precision but also a deep understanding of natural materials such as larch and mahogany wood, chosen for their durability and lightness.

Each gondola is a work of art, meticulously crafted down to the smallest detail by the gondolier and the master carpenter specialized in boat construction. The building process can last several months, during which each part of the boat is hand-shaped to ensure the perfect balance and maneuverability that Venetian gondolas are known for.

But the gondola is just one of many testaments to Venetian craftsmanship. Other types of boats, such as sandoli and pupparini, are used for fishing and transport, each designed with specifications suited to their unique use in the narrow canals and shallow waters of the lagoon.

This heritage of maritime knowledge is not only preserved by craftsmen; it is celebrated annually during the Historical Regatta, an event that sees these traditional boats race along the Grand Canal, showcasing the elegance and skill of Venetian rowers.

The art of boatbuilding in Venice is a living link to the past, an expression of culture and history that continues to flow through the city like its tides. I invite all of you to reflect on the importance of these traditions, which not only keep history alive but anchor Venetian identity in the present.

Until our next exploration