Squero di San Trovaso

Venice is a treasure trove of interesting buildings. This wonderful 17th century boat yard is one of my favourite spots. Situated on a quiet canal behind Zattere, in the shadow of the Campo San Trovaso church, it is one of the few remaining traditional gondola repair yards. The alpine style of the wooden workshop stands in contrast to the ubiquitous stone, brick and plaster of the city. I’m told this is because the original craftsmen, and the wood they used, came from the Cadore hills, which lie at the foot of the alps to the north of the city. In any case, the sight of these huge, flat-bottomed boats, standing on trestles, in various states of repair, is always fascinating. It provides a glimpse behind the scenes of traditional Venetian commerce.