Presented in May 2020, a comprehensive guide to Venice tourism addressed how the city could reimagine visitor experiences in the aftermath of pandemic disruption, balancing historical exploration with technological innovation and sustainability.
Historical and cultural landmarks
The itinerary highlighted key Venetian sites including the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, the Ponte dei Pugni (Bridge of Fists), the Ponte dell’Accademia, and Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo. The guide also examined the Chiesa e Squero di San Trovaso, a working shipyard and church, and explored the history and craftsmanship of the gondola and its distinctive iron ornament, the ferro.
Digital and virtual access
Virtual tours through ABCOnlus and venicewalks.org offered remote engagement with the city’s heritage. The guide also examined Venice’s role in cinema and featured contemporary art, including work by Banksy in Venice.
Infrastructure and innovation
The itinerary discussed Venice’s historic water wells (pozzi) and broader strategies for sustainable tourism in a city facing environmental and overcrowding pressures. The content addressed new approaches to tourism that prioritised preservation alongside visitor experience.
Broadcast schedule
The material was produced for broadcast on Italian television across multiple dates in May 2020: Wednesday 27 May at 19:40 on Telechiara (channels 14 and 604), Saturday 30 May at 13:30 on Telechiara (channels 14 and 604), and Sunday 31 May at 08:30 on TVA Vicenza (channel 10 terrestrial and channel 832 Sky).
Frequently asked questions
What sites did the itinerary cover?
The guide included the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, Ponte dei Pugni, Ponte dell’Accademia, Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, Chiesa e Squero di San Trovaso, and Venice’s historic wells.
How could visitors access Venice remotely?
Virtual tours were available through ABCOnlus and venicewalks.org, allowing remote engagement with the city’s heritage during pandemic restrictions.
What was the primary goal of the post-pandemic tourism strategy?
The guide aimed to make tourism more sustainable while preserving Venice’s historical and cultural significance.
