IS VENICE SINKING?

new year's eve

Venice is a little, unique, jewel city that was built on a series of islands connected by canals and bridges. Venice has long been known for its picturesque beauty, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. However, in recent years, Venice has faced a growing threat: the sinking of its foundations.

According to a recent article of the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, Venice is sinking at a rate of few millimetres per year. While this may seem like a small number, it adds up over time, and it will grow in the future. This sinking is due to a combination of natural and man-made factors.

According to the municipality, one of the primary causes of the sinking of Venice is the subsidence due to the extraction of groundwater from the region’s aquifers. As water is pumped out, the ground slowly sinks to fill the void.

Another contributing factor to the sinking of Venice is climate change. As global temperatures rise, the sea levels are also rising, and this has a direct impact on Venice, which is located at the northern end of the Adriatic Sea. The rising sea levels are causing the lagoon in which Venice is situated to flood more frequently, causing significant damage to the city’s infrastructure and buildings.

boat in venice

To combat the sinking of Venice, city officials have implemented a number of measures. One of the most significant measures is the MOSE project, which involves the construction of mobile barriers at the entrance to the lagoon. These barriers can be raised during high tides to prevent flooding in the city.

In addition to this, the city is implementing a number of conservation measures to protect its cultural heritage. Venice is home to some of the world’s most iconic buildings and art, and the sinking of the city puts this heritage at risk. Conservation measures include the use of special materials to protect buildings from water damage and the development of sustainable tourism practices to reduce the impact of visitors on the city’s fragile ecosystem.

Mobile dam venice
Magistrato alle Acque di Venezia – Consorzio Venezia Nuova

The sinking of Venice is undoubtedly a challenging issue, but there is hope for the future. Venice is a city that has survived for centuries, and its resilience is a testament to the creativity of its people. While the city may continue to sink, it is possible to adapt and thrive in the face of this challenge.

Ultimately, the sinking of Venice is a call to action for us all. It is a reminder that we must take responsibility for the impact we have on the planet and work towards a more sustainable and resilient future. By coming together and taking action, we can help ensure that Venice remains a beautiful and thriving city for generations to come.