REGATA STORICA

September 4th, 2011

The "Regata Storica", one of the most spectacular and picturesque events in Venetian life, thrills both the local people lining the Grand Canal or looking out of the windows of the elegant mansions and tourists, enchanted by the procession of boats and caught up in the passionate enthusiasm of the spectators watching the race.
The procession which precedes the race commemorates 1489 when the Venetians welcomed Caterina Cornaro, bride of the King of Cyprus, who had renounced the throne in favour of Venice. 
The historic procession of typical 16th century boats is headed by the characteristic " Bucintoro ", the Serenissima Republic's state galley.