Explore Venice's
intricate maze of pedestrian passageways on a 2 1/2 hour guided walk that
passes along narrow canals, over ornate little bridges, and into the depths
of the city.
WHAT YOU SEE ON YOUR WALKING TOUR Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei
Frari - The façade of this immense 14th-century Franciscan church is a
simple, Gothic brick design punctuated with a white marble portico and
pinnacles.
Campo San Polo - One of Venice's oldest squares, the Campo was a staging
area for ceremonials, bull running and theatrical performances. Today it is
a venue for the film festival-and Venice's Carnival celebrations.
Riva del Vin - This rare stretch of pedestrian access to the Grand Canal
was where wine barrels were offloaded from vessels to warehouses. The Riva
offers a superb view of the Rialto Bridge.
Rialto Bridge - The Rialto was built in stone in 1524, following the
collapse of several of the city's wooden bridges. The overhanging porticos
housing shops came at a later date. The most famous bridge in Venice, the
Rialto offers lovely views of the Grand Canal.
Fondaco dei Tedeschi - This large Renaissance style building was once a
warehouse and a large emporium; since 1870 it has served as the main post
office.
Campo San Giovanni e Paolo - This monumental square typifies Venetian
style: a church sits at the square's focal point, there's a central
monument, and patrician palaces interspersed with modest houses stand on the
periphery.
WHAT YOU VISIT Church of Santi Giovanni e Paolo - The city's most
ambitious piece of Gothic architecture was begun by Dominican fathers at the
end of the 13th-century. Dedicated to Saint John and St. Paul, the church
features a main portal that exhibits the shift in style from Gothic to
Renaissance. Widely spaced columns divide the nave into three aisles, and
the church houses the tombs of 25 Doges. The stained glass windows were
fashioned by Murano glassblowers. Prior to your independent visit of the
church, your guide wll explain the interior and exterior features from the
outside.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY A short transfer by motorcoach takes you to
Piazzale Roma, where your walking tour begins. Your guide leads you through
narrow streets and passages, explaining the city's architecture and history.
After reaching the waterfront near St. Mark's, your guide directs you to the
motor launch for your return by water to the ship. You may choose to remain
in Venice; you are then responsible for your return to the ship. |
