You’re ambling along one of Venice’s numerous little alleyways one bright, sunny morning. You’re taking in the centuries-old ambience for which Venice is known worldwide: Red geraniums flowing brightly in window flower boxes, neighbours chatting amiably, and the ubiquitous Venice cat lazing on a sunny balcony.

Then you’re sgtopped in you tracks by a flood of water covering the alley from side to side, and lapping at the side doorways. Anxioiusly you enquire around whether Venice has sunk overnight. Will only the rooftops be sticking out by nightfall? You notice that passersby simply acknowledge your concerns with a knowing smile or a comforting laugh.

You also happen to notice that they all seem  to be well prepared for the flood, as most are wearing rather fasionable wellington boots. Also, most doorways have contraptions in front of them preventing water from seeping into hallways.

This flood occurrence is what Venetians refer to as ‘acqua alta’ and it’s a fairly common phenomenon with which everyday life in the city has to cope with. What is it caused by? Well, Venice is located in a large but extremely shallow lagoon, which is subject to sea tides. When the tide rises water sometimes spills over into the alleys and campos, particularly during winter, when high tides are more pronounced than during other times of the year. The overspill varies from a few centimetres to half-a-metre, depending on the place and season.

There are various ways in which Venice copes with acqua alta. Water boots of all shapes and colours are a common sight and you’ll be able to buy a pair at most shoe shops. In many areas, including the main tourist hub on St. Mark’s Square, you’ll notice long, moveable  running boards that people walk along in areas that are under water. And as mentioned, flood prone doorways are protected by metal plates that stop water from seeping in.

The flooding is hardly dangerous, and even times where it has caused serious damage has been few and far between. Most certainly, it’ll rather make yoiur time in Venice more interesting rather than posing any kind of concern. It’s one of the quirks that make traveling to unknown places interesting and unique.
Technorati Tags: venice, flood, lagoon, italy, travel

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