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Venician glass blowing was found in the back streets of the city. The group walked in and was sown the liquid design process, all by hand. We saw an old man blow and shape a cat, ( ha ) then we toured the rest of the small factory to marvel at a circus of ornaments and glass wear. This was one of the more expensive places we shopped. Though newly weds seemed to appreciate the discounted dinnersets.
The tour arrived to the collection of islands by motor boat. We rambled over waterways, sidewalked by concrete peers ,and bridges with ornate steps. In some instances, the water came right up to the buildings, making them appear as if they were floating. Too bad the city itself is said to be sinking.
A group gondola ride stared next to the Santa Maria Della Salute and rounded the corner into the back alleys. The buildings are so tall that the temperatures dropped a good four degrees Celsius . Good thing we had Bellini to warm us up! The gondoliers took it upon themselves to make sure those interested in romance didn't miss a chance, and the rest of us felt better about our own singing.
The Dodges palace was true judge for those under Venice rule. Those who were deemed guilty and were to be punished by death were detained in the adjacent dungeon. They took their final breath of air in crossing the Bridge of Sighs shown here. The Rialto Bridge on the left is said to be a renaissance treasure, though the real trust is in the engineering of six thousand wooden piles holding up each abutment.
Venice is home to the Spanish steps,which is an impressive feet for tired tourists. Not only are they rather tall, they're covered with those who have given up along the way. They're as hard to walk up as they are to find a seat upon. The Trevi fountain seemingly marked the half way point of our trip. We took turns wishing for our return and the return of others around us, though some of us were too busy eating roasted chestnuts to make wishes-- Hope fate doesn't stop us.
St. Marks Cathedral was rich with beauty. It overlooked the plaza, which was an endearing sight with its pigeons and children running 'round. The street vendors caught up with us and were taken by the group Casanova. Their's one on every tour!