Venice is a city of enchanting beauty in Italy, famed as a romantic city. Historic Venice is known the world over for its striking palaces that seem to float on the water and the clear waterways that wind alongside them. Few cities in the world are as graceful, and it is a favourite of tourists from everywhere. Its art and literature, and above all its architecture, delight anyone who sees them: every house seems a work of architecture, standing in the water with its colourful ornamentation. History tells us the floating city grew up as a refuge from pirates; its population then grew steadily and the city prospered.

By tradition, the only way to get from one place to another in Venice is by small boat. For every family living in Venice the boat is its own transport, and a private boat or speedboat is tied up at the landing of each house. The most attractive and romantic of Venice's craft is the gondola, which catches everyone's eye. Every few moments there is something to see, perhaps an ancient church, a museum or an exhibition, and shops selling masks, hats and coloured glassware line the way.

The romantic city is a very popular honeymoon destination for newly married couples, which is why it is also called the "City of Love". Countless canals spread across the whole of Venice like a spider's web.

Venice is famous around the world as a city of masks. A mask carnival is held there every year, and for it beautiful masks are made with exceptional craftsmanship and artistic taste. Tourists who visit Venice buy these colourful masks. The Lido island of Venice is another wonderful place for visitors and is called the golden island of Venice.

The floating city is also very popular with tourists for its seafood. For lovers of seafood, Venice is a paradise.

Source: Shykh Seraj. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.