hidden europe 11

Venice at rest

by hidden europe

Summary

Venice's most populous corner turns out to be an unlikely haven of solitude.

Hard though it may be to believe, there is a part of Venice which is even more crowded than the narrow lanes of San Marco. We would not wish the Rialto on a hot summer day on anyone, and those who brave the tourist crowds to ride the vaporetti (water buses) along the Canal Grande sometimes deserve medals for their tenacity. Elsewhere across the city, tourists jostle for position on quaysides that were designed for princes or for crusaders. But there is another Venice.

Related articleFull text online

Polar quest: the 1928 Nobile expedition

It was eighty years ago this spring that Umberto Nobile embarked on the airship Italia. His destination? The North Pole! Read about an expedition that was to prompt the biggest rescue effort in the history of polar exploration.full article available in pdf format

Related articleFull text online

The city of St George: Genoa

The port city of Genoa commanded huge influence on account of its mercantile acumen and its early schemes for the management of public debt, which paved the way for modern banking. Today the city of St George still has the face of business.

Related blog post

Coffee in Trieste: the joy of railway stations

Paul Scraton reflects on the appeal of railway stations as places to linger. Stop for a coffee and reflect on past travels and future journeys. They are more than merely a place to change trains or buy a ticket.