Venice, one of the world’s most romantic and unique cities, has long captured the hearts of visitors. However, beneath its stunning façade lies a significant issue: is Venice sinking? The answer, unfortunately, is yes. This city of art, history, and culture is slowly descending into the lagoon that surrounds it. But why is Venice sinking, and what does the future hold for this treasured destination?
In this article, we will explore the reasons behind Venice’s sinking, the impact on its monuments and streets, and the steps being taken to preserve this remarkable city.
Reasons Behind Venice’s Sinking
The question of why Venice is sinking can be attributed to several factors. First and foremost is Venice’s foundation. The city is built on millions of wooden piles that have supported its buildings for centuries. These piles, driven deep into the clay soil beneath the lagoon, are submerged in water, which prevents them from rotting. However, over time, the natural subsidence of the ground, coupled with human activities, has caused the city to sink.
One of the significant contributors to how fast Venice is sinking is the pumping of groundwater, which began in the 20th century to aid industrial development. While this practice was halted in the 1960s, the damage had already been done. The removal of water from underground aquifers compacted the soil, leading to a subsidence rate that has left Venice sinking by about one to two millimetres per year.
The situation is exacerbated by climate change and the rising sea levels that come with it. As the water in the Adriatic Sea continues to rise, Venice experiences more frequent high tides, known as acqua alta. Where once high tides were rare, now they occur with increasing regularity, flooding large portions of the city. This combination of rising sea levels and Venice’s natural subsidence has led many to wonder how fast Venice is sinking and whether it can be saved.
How Venice’s Sinking Affects its Monuments and Streets
Venice’s sinking has a profound effect on its landmarks, streets, and the daily lives of its residents. Monuments like St. Mark’s Basilica, one of the most iconic buildings in the city, are particularly vulnerable to rising waters. The basilica has been flooded numerous times, with saltwater causing long-term damage to its foundations and mosaics. This not only threatens the structural integrity of these monuments but also diminishes their historical and cultural value over time.
Piazza San Marco, often the first place to flood during acqua alta, is another area where Venice’s sinking is clearly visible. Once a rare event, the square now floods over 200 times a year, making it increasingly difficult for tourists and locals to enjoy this historic site. The water damage, combined with the salt content of the lagoon, erodes the stone and brickwork of Venice’s many centuries-old buildings, leading to expensive restoration efforts.
Additionally, Venice’s streets and canals are frequently inundated, disrupting daily life. Residents have had to adapt to the regularity of high tides, often wading through water to get to work or school. Raised walkways are frequently installed in heavily flooded areas to guide pedestrians, but they are a temporary fix to a growing problem.
Measures Being Taken to Protect Venice
In response to these challenges, Venice has taken several measures to slow down the effects of sinking and protect the city from rising tides. The most ambitious project is the MOSE system, a $6 billion flood barrier designed to shield Venice from high tides. This system consists of 78 mobile barriers installed at the three inlets—Lido, Malamocco, and Chioggia—that connect the Venetian lagoon to the Adriatic Sea. When high tides are forecast, the barriers are raised to prevent the sea from flowing into the lagoon, effectively keeping the city dry.
The MOSE system has already shown its effectiveness. In 2022, a tide that could have flooded 82% of the city’s walkways was successfully blocked by the barriers. However, concerns remain. As sea levels continue to rise, the MOSE system may become less effective, leading to questions about its long-term viability.
Venice’s proposed “super levee” is an ambitious project designed to protect the city from rising sea levels. Unlike standard levees, which can be breached by overflow, a super levee would create a broad flood protection zone. It would be about 13 feet tall and nearly 400 feet wide, allowing for controlled water flow and the generation of electricity. The levee would also offer space for infrastructure such as transportation, bike paths, and tourism facilities, helping to alleviate Venice’s overcrowding while preserving its historical centre.
In addition to technological interventions, the city has also implemented smaller but crucial measures, such as glass barriers to protect historic monuments from saltwater and flood prevention systems in vulnerable areas.
What You Can Do to Contribute to the Preservation of Venice
As a visitor, you play an important role in the preservation of Venice. Sustainable tourism is key to reducing the environmental impact on the city. One simple way to contribute is by choosing eco-friendly accommodation that respects Venice’s delicate environment. Staying in such accommodation ensures that you’re contributing to the city’s preservation efforts by supporting properties that maintain their historical integrity.
Beyond accommodation, you can help by reducing plastic usage, recycling responsibly, and choosing to walk or use Venice’s water transport systems, which are less harmful to the environment. Participating in guided tours with reputable organisations that focus on sustainability can also ensure that your visit benefits the city’s cultural and environmental landscape.
Finally, supporting local businesses and artisans helps Venice maintain its unique charm and ensures that tourism dollars are reinvested in the local economy. Many Venetians rely on tourism for their livelihoods, so your mindful choices as a traveller can make a real difference in the city’s future.
Book Sustainable Accommodation in Venice
Is Venice sinking? Unfortunately, the answer is yes. However, there is still hope. Despite the ongoing challenges from rising tides and subsidence, innovations like the MOSE system and other engineering solutions are actively helping to safeguard this extraordinary city. With a rich history of resilience spanning over 1,200 years, Venice has adapted to many obstacles and, with continued efforts, will endure.
At Dimora Italia, our properties honour the essence of Venice by preserving its unique heritage while embracing modern comforts. Book your stay with Dimora Italia and become part of Venice’s preservation story today.
