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5 Key Places in Venice’s Maritime History

Naval Heritage

Trace the story of Venice’s naval might across these 5 remarkable sites, each revealing a chapter of the city’s maritime legacy — including the rare chance to board a real submarine and experience what life was like beneath the waves!


1

Arsenale

Arsenale : The main waterway entrance

Historic shipyard powering Venice's former naval supremacy.

Perfect for boys of all ages, yet everyone will be amazed by the history of the complex and fascinated by the giant sculpture depicting six pairs of hands.

Explore Arsenale

2

Squero di San Trovaso

Squero di San Trovaso : The workshop and living quarters, resembling an alpine chalet, are quite unusual for Venice

One of the last few boatyards building traditional wooden gondolas.

Witness skilled artisans crafting and repairing gondolas by hand, a centuries-old craft that's quintessentially Venetian.

Explore Squero di San Trovaso

3

Naval History Museum

Naval History Museum : Inside the former oar joinery of the adjacent Arsenale, the Ships Pavilion displays one of its star exhibits: the Scalè Reale — a boat built in the early 19th century to transport high-ranking guests

Museum of Venice’s naval history, housed in the former Granary of the Serenissima Republic.

Overall, the museum is fascinating for children and essential for naval warfare enthusiasts. After all, how often do you get the chance to board a military submarine?

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4

Riva degli Schiavoni

Riva degli Schiavoni : The monumental waterfront is constantly bustling with crowds and souvenir stalls

Monumental waterfront along the San Marco basin.

Stroll next to the glittering water on one of the most beloved promenades, which is particularly charming close to sunset.

Explore Riva degli Schiavoni

5

Zattere

Zattere : Zattere is a favorite spot for the local 'ritual' of La Passeggiata (the promenade)

Sun-bathed waterfront on the south of Dorsoduro.

The promenade is such a soothing spot, perfect for enjoying the local atmosphere. Watch the sunset while sipping an aperitivo and prepare for the evening.

Explore Zattere

Tip

Enter a real submarine

How thrilling would it be to step inside a military submarine from the Cold War era and discover what life was like beneath the surface?

Explore the entire 46 m (150 ft) Enrico Dandolo (S 513) submarine from the engine room to the torpedo chamber with a guided tour that also includes entry to Naval History Museum.


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