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San Michele Cemetery, Burano & a Gondola Boatyard
Sunday, July 25, 2021 • 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. (CDT)
Presented in English
Take a walk in the shade of the cypress trees of this vast, silent island, where you will discover an atmospheric place and its fascinating history. Alvise will explain how San Michele was transformed into Venice’s cemetery many years ago.
You’ll learn the stories of famous characters, both Italians and foreigners, who rest here for eternity — poet Ezra Pound, theater impresario Serge Diaghilev, painter Emilio Vedova, composer Igor Stravinsky, and others who repose in this monumental cemetery. Stroll through the new extension of the cemetery planned by architect David Chipperfield and visit the church of San Cristoforo. Walk through the areas reserved for nuns, monks and those who have served in the army. The cemetery on the island of San Michele is the place where Venetians find eternal peace and where the silence is interrupted only by the sound of boats, waves on the laguna and seagulls.
The next stop is Burano, arguably the most picturesque island in the Laguna thanks to its brightly-colored houses, where, even today fishermen sit outside organizing their nets and women make their famous lace. We’ll walk around this colorful island and visit a studio where we’ll see a master lacemaker practicing this artisanal craft that is unique in the world and view some of the precious work created over the centuries.
Finally, there’s a visit to Squero di San Trovaso, a typical Venetian boatyard where they build and repair gondolas and other boats that are part of Venetian lagoon tradition.
In existence since before 1600, the Squero di San Trovaso is one of the few boatyards still operating in Venice. The building that houses it has the Alpine architecture typical of houses in the mountains, principally because the carpenters came from Cadore.
During the time of the Republic, it appears that there was a high density of boatyards in the city in order to deal with an elevated demand for oared boats. Currently, only six remain, of which San Trovaso is certainly one of the most notable.
Discover Venice through the eyes of a real Venetian!
My name is Alvise. It’s a very common name here in Venice, used by the Doges during the period of the Most Serene Republic of Venice. In English, it could be creatively translated as Elvis! I was born and raised in Venice and after I completed my studies in Art History and the Conservation of Cultural Heritage at the University of Venice, I decided to start on the path of becoming a professional tour guide.
I’ve had several work experiences abroad, both in Great Britain and the United States, over a period of two years. I’ve also worked as an actor in small roles in various films here in Venice. I’ve worked at events, art exhibitions and I also played for a semi-professional soccer team.
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Please register by July 23, 2021 • Questions or concerns? email daniela@sentieri.com