Venice, also known as the "Serenissima" thanks to its full name "La Serenissima Repubblica di Venezia", is a unique city characterized by its canals, bridges and historic architecture. The name  “Serenissima” reflects its long and glorious past as one of the most powerful and influential maritime republics in the Mediterranean. Venice was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1987. Its timeless beauty and its fascinating history continue to make it an unmissable destination for travelers from all over the world. The historical center of Venice is divided into six boroughs, or “sestieri”, which are named Cannaregio, Castello, Dorsoduro, San Marco, San Polo, and Santa Croce. While exploring the various "sestieri", tourists will be captivated by their unique atmosphere.  However, the heart and soul of Venice is Piazza San Marco, dominated by the majestic Basilica of San Marco, a jewel of Byzantine architecture. The Campanile of San Marco offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, while the Palazzo Ducale, with its magnificent Gothic architecture, reveals the political history of the Republic of Venice. The picturesque canals of Venice, including the famous Grand Canal, are crossed by iconic bridges such as the remarkable Rialto Bridge, a fascinating and imposing structure that houses traditional handicraft shops. Venice, a car-free city, relies on gondolas, boatmen and vaporettos for transportation. This city is bewitching all year round, so… take your time to discover what else it is hiding. Carnival masks and the artistic mastery of painters are among Venice's most famous attractions. The Carnival here is an annual event featuring beautifully decorated masks and transforming the city into a lively stage of elegance and mystery. The tradition of glassmaking on Murano, a nearby island, adds a touch of refined craftsmanship to Venetian culture. Unsurprisingly, Venice has been home to many great artists, such as Tintoretto and Canaletto, whose masterpieces are displayed in the city's museums and churches. The Lion of San Marco is the centuries-old symbol of the city of Venice and the current symbol of the Municipality and Province of Venice.