Monday, June 25, 2012

Turning Towards Torcello

One of the great surprises of my Italian sojourn:
Historic Torcello, barely populated, yet at one time, the beating heart of the Veneto.

Some 20 people now occupy this island in the Venetian lagoon where 10,000 or more once thrived. 

Wild meadows and fenced areas under cultivation caught my eye,

along with Ristorante Villa 600, where we stopped to sip an afternoon 'Spritz' in the peaceful gardens.

Ponte del diavolo / Photo: Wikipedia
The ancient bridge found on Torcello is a popular place for tourist shutterbugs to pose.

The only other bridge of its kind in the region is Ponte Chiodo,
leading directly to the door of the Ponte Chiodo Guest House, where I was welcomed upon arrival in Venice.

3 comments:

  1. Oh, I am in love with this island, with so few people living on it and and learning it was once the heart of Venice.
    My dh and I enjoy the mysteries set in Venice written by Donna Leon; they give a lot of the flavor of the city, canals, people and food. Post more photos please!

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    Replies
    1. Hi Terra
      I enjoy Donna Leon's books, as well. If one can't visit regularly, at least a vicarious visit it better than none at all!

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  2. It looks like a beautiful place. I'd love to hear more about the history of why the inhabitants left. The sculptures are impressive!

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