Where does Venice typically get flooded during Christmas?
Venice, the enchanting city of canals and bridges, is renowned for its stunning beauty and rich history. However, one aspect that often surprises visitors is the city’s susceptibility to flooding. During the festive season, particularly around Christmas, Venice faces a phenomenon known as “Acqua Alta,” which translates to “high water.” This article explores the areas of Venice that typically get flooded during Christmas and the factors contributing to this annual event.
Causes of Flooding in Venice
The flooding in Venice during Christmas, as well as other times of the year, is primarily caused by a combination of factors. Firstly, Venice is built on a series of wooden piles, known as “pili,” that are submerged in the shallow Adriatic Sea. These piles support the city’s foundation, but they are also prone to erosion and instability.
Secondly, the city’s geographical location makes it vulnerable to high tides and storm surges. The Adriatic Sea experiences two main tidal cycles: the neap tides, which occur when the moon’s gravitational pull is weaker, and the spring tides, which occur when the moon’s gravitational pull is stronger. During the spring tides, particularly when the moon is full or new, the sea level rises, leading to higher chances of flooding.
Lastly, climate change plays a significant role in exacerbating the flooding in Venice. Rising sea levels and changing weather patterns contribute to more frequent and severe flooding events.
Areas Typically Flooded During Christmas
During Christmas, the areas of Venice that typically get flooded include:
1. St. Mark’s Square: As the city’s main square and a popular tourist destination, St. Mark’s Square is often submerged during high water. Visitors can witness the famous Piazza San Marco with its famous landmarks partially under water.
2. The Rialto Bridge: One of Venice’s most iconic landmarks, the Rialto Bridge, is frequently affected by flooding. The bridge connects the San Marco and San Polo districts and is a must-visit spot for tourists.
3. Dorsoduro and Santa Croce: These two districts are known for their picturesque canals and are often affected by high water during the Christmas season.
4. The Grand Canal: The main waterway of Venice, the Grand Canal, experiences flooding as well. It runs through the city and connects various districts, making it a popular route for gondola rides.
5. Small Side Canals: Many of Venice’s smaller canals and backstreets are prone to flooding, particularly during the festive season when the water levels are higher.
Dealing with Flooding
To combat the frequent flooding, Venice has implemented various measures. The city has constructed a mobile flood barrier known as the “MOSE” project, which aims to protect the city from high water. The MOSE system consists of 78 gates that can be closed to prevent the sea from entering the lagoon.
Moreover, the city is also working on improving the infrastructure and building techniques to reduce the impact of flooding. Despite these efforts, the festive season in Venice still brings the annual spectacle of flooded streets and canals, making it a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors.
