My Russian Life: Venice

It is the city of mirrors, the city of mirages, at once solid and liquid, at once air and stone.
~ Erica Jong

Someone recently asked me about Venice - if I would recommend it to visit, how do I compare it to other cities in Italy.

Venice is unique. "Hauntingly Beautiful" was the description I used. Nothing else in Italy compares. You won't get the best food of Italy (although if you know where to look, true Venetian cuisine is very good). There are too many tourists. And it can get a little smelly (all that water, with relatively no movement). But it's one of my favorite places to just walk and reflect, and think about Venice's place in history.

Chiesa de San Moise, right next to our hotel. Initially built in the 8th Century, the current façade is from the 1600's

Piazza San Marco (St. Mark's Square). This is the North side of the square - these buildings are known as the Procuratie Vecchie, or "old procuracies". They were formerly the homes and offices of the Procurators of St. Mark, who were high officers of state in the days of the republic of Venice. Built in the early 16th century, they are now primarily shops and restaurants at the ground level, with offices above.

The Clock Tower (built in 1499) and the South side of the square. The buildings on this side are known as the Procuratie Nuove, or "new procuracies". Built in the mid 17th Century.

St. Mark's Basilica. Under indefinite construction.

So many interesting alleys and hidden corners.

A quick lunch, near St. Mark's square. I love how they made a simple sandwich (and afternoon cocktail) look so elegant.

Cocktail of choice for a warm afternoon? An Aperol Spritz