Grand Canal

Can you imagine a street made not of stone, but of sparkling green water. Instead of cars, sleek black boats glide by. That’s me. I am a long, winding road of water where you can hear the gentle lapping of waves against colorful buildings. These buildings look like palaces with pointy windows, and it seems like they are dipping their toes right into me. From my surface, you can hear the songs of gondoliers as they steer their special boats, called gondolas, under beautiful arched bridges. I twist and turn like a giant, happy snake through a city that floats. People from all over the world come to see me and ride on my gentle currents, waving to each other as they pass by. I am the famous Grand Canal in the magical city of Venice.

My story is very long and winding, just like I am. A very long time ago, around the 5th century, I was just a natural river. The first people of Venice came here to build a safe city right on the water, away from danger on the land. As the years went by, the city grew bigger and richer. Merchants traveled far away and brought back wonderful treasures like sweet-smelling spices and soft, colorful silks. They built grand homes and palaces all along my banks, starting in the 12th century. I became the most important street in the whole city. I was like a superhighway for boats. Big boats full of goods and small boats carrying people were always zipping across my surface. One of my most famous friends is the Rialto Bridge. The very first one, made of wood, was built to cross me way back in 1181. But today, you can see a strong, beautiful stone bridge that arches over me like a giant hug. It was finished a long, long time ago, on February 10th, 1591.

Today, I am still the heart of Venice, and I am busier than ever. I don't carry as many merchants with spices anymore, but I do carry happy visitors from every corner of the world. They float on my waters in gondolas or ride on bigger boats called waterbuses, looking up at the amazing buildings and waving to friends. I love to host parties. My favorite is the Historical Regatta, a tradition that started in the 14th century. During this festival, people dress in old-fashioned costumes and race in colorful, decorated boats. It’s a wonderful sight. I connect everyone to the beauty and history of this amazing floating city. My waters will always carry the stories and dreams of Venice for everyone to see and share.