Venice might once have been engulfed by the water just like the city of Atlantis, where it not for the maintenance work carried out by the cities devoted protectors, and the efforts of the international community.

Huge efforts go into restoration and protection, for example by building removable flood gates to help the protect the city from the wear of time and of the tides.

As we float through the canals, Venice reveals to us its history and traditions: from its days as a formidable military and commercial power to its present identity as a tourist hotspot.

Not only is the city of Venice bursting with architectural landmarks, such as the Doge’s Palace, the Rialto bridge and Saint Marc’s square.

Venice is also a city of romance, with its deserted canals, the Jewish Ghetto and the Café Florian, a meeting place for artists since 1720.

From the hoards of tourists amassing around her great monuments, to the intimate

luxury of a renovated aristocrat’s palace, the city affectionately known as « la Serenissima » is both proud and appealing.

A city of Museums, of artisans and the Murano glass factories, a city of famous people like Casanova,… it is a city of many faces, never ceasing to surprise.

And as the golden light of a dying autumn day falls over “la Serenissima,” there is no better way to enjoy her charms than floating through the city on a gondola.

Directed by Jacques VICHET