Venice

Possibly, the appeal of Venice is the fact that it may only be here for a finite period. Perhaps the contradiction of a city in such an unsuitable, unlikely spot draws people in. Maybe it is the wealth of architectural and artistic splendour, found at every turn, which continues to make this a Mecca for travellers from across the globe. Who knows? Whatever it is, Venice has got some almost indefinable quality that makes it one of the worlds most memorable places.

And it's all because of Attila the Hun.

The first real settlers of the Venetian Islands were Christians who were fleeing the invading barbarian hordes.

By the time of the Crusades Venice was well placed to profit from the growing trade between east and west, this developed into a business empire that wielded huge power until the end of the 17th century. As time passed so the influence of Venice as a city-state waned and Napoleon saw an end to it at the end of the 18th century. Until it became part of a unified Italy Venice was nothing more than an outpost of the Habsburg Empire, eclipsed as a port, it fell into a slump.

Venice has, from the 19th century to the present day, traded on past glories. It became a resort, fashionable with the British and Russian aristocracy and has continued as a tourist attraction ever since. But what an attraction? During its golden years of economic boom the wealthy burghers of Venice poured their wealth into making it an architecturally stunning place filled with the treasures of the world. The buildings may be a shade pollution weary and sinking into the sand, but it cannot disguise the majesty of this unique city.

Where to go and what to see

To get a real feel for Venice it is best viewed from the water. A Gondola is the traditional way to see the city but this can be expensive, the best way is by waterbus and these run as regular buses do. A trip along the Canal Grande will acquaint you with the palaces that were so beloved of the rich renaissance Venetians. A waterbus along the canal will eventually bring you to St Marks Square. This is the single most popular and therefore congested attraction in Venice.

The Square is a great place to just sit and watch the world rush past, although a cappuccino to accompany your sit may cost more than you expect. The Square has traditionally been the centre of activity in the city; this is due to the buildings that surround it. The Basilica di San Marco was completed at the close of the 11th century but has been added to and added to ever since. These additions have given the Basilica an eclectic appearance, which reflect the wealth and power of the Doges'. Inside, the building is no less sumptuous, with dazzling mosaics everywhere that cause the light to dance around the interior. Mosaics aside there are also marble sculptures, Icons and the jewelled Golden Alter Panel to be marvelled at.

The Doge was a kind of President; he was elected for life and sat on all the major councils of state. The Doge was immensely powerful and influential individual and yet he was accountable and monitored by the state, one was even beheaded. The centre of Government was the Palazzo Ducale- the Doges' Palace. Almost the whole of the administration of the state was undertaken from here. The building housed courts, civil servants, all the tools required for running the state even the prisons.

Like its near neighbour, San Marco, the Palazzo was built, rebuilt and then bits were added. The pink marble exterior of this gothic style palace contains many fine works of art, most notably by Veronese and Tintoretto. The famed Bridge of Sighs connects the Palace to the prison cell blocks. The 'Sighs' in the bridge name is derived from the groaning of those fearing the worst as they were led across the bridge into incarceration. Also, on the Piazza San Marco is the Campanile di San Marco, a bell tower that affords a good view of the city from the top.

Whilst in Venice it is also worth visiting the Academia which reflects, through the work of its artists the cultural stature of the Venetian state from the 14th to the 18th century. The Museo Civico Correr is worth a visit, especially by those with a curiosity about Venetian history. The Museum also includes sections of archaeological interest, one on Venetian art (excellent but not so comprehensive as the Academia) and parts of the library, Libreria Sansovininia.

Also worth a look are the Scuole, which were institutes of a cultural, religious nature for the use of the working middle classes. Technically they had no real power but due to the strength of their membership and the wealth at their disposal, they were able to influence the patrician ruling class. One of the most lavish Scuole is the Scuola di San Rocco.

Two of the other things Venice is famed for are Glass and Lace. Buyer Beware. There is a lot of good stuff to be had but there is also a lot of tat so be careful. Many of the shops selling glass and lace are to be found in the San Marco area take a wander and you may find a traditional glassblower demonstrating his skill.

Don't look now but Venice is an amazing place to simply wander through. Get away from the main tourist areas and there are pleasant surprises around every corner.