Venice, Day One: Hello Freezing rain and Wet Jeans

Who knew that gold and bones go so well together? At St. Mark's Basilica they definitely do. The church, on the man-made city of Venice, commemorates the apostle Mark (by decorating his remains with intricate gold and jewels). The basilica, adorned with paintings and Latin inscriptions, sits directly next to the Doge's palace.

We explored both locations today, as well as Correr museum which held artifacts from the height of Venice's time of political power. The city was run by a hierarchy under the Doge; a completely male dominated society. Venice thrived through a well organized system of trade as a port city--mapping tools and gigantic globes within the Correr museum testify to their pursuit of making their port system more efficient.

Painting portrayed Jesus Christ as the central religious figure, as well as his mother Mary. Various Christian martyrs were depicted as heroes for dying for their faith in Jesus.

Beautiful glass work--chandeliers, vases, bowls--is a trademark of Venice. They were displayed throughout the museum and "on sale" in all the shops (in Italy, there is a "saldi" or sale in every shop--every day).

Today was freezing and rainy--unfortunately, many of us spent the first minutes in these locations searching for a heater to thaw off by. Hoping the city doesn't flood! But if it does, there are lifted platforms to walk on... good news.

Photo by Sara Sather, Saint Mark's Basilica with flood platforms

Let the Countdown 'till Italy Begin!

27 days until touchdown in Venice, Italy. The Concordia University (St. Paul) Italy Tour 2010 is preparing to explore three different provinces in Italy shortly after the new year.

After a couple of day-long workshops, we have already learned basic Italian and history of the places we will see. From Venice--a man-made city that sits within a lagoon--to Rome--where the great Colosseum still stands--we are itching to depart the deceptively beautiful 8 degree Minnesota winter.

Andiamo! Let's go! We are eager for finals to be over, Christmas to put travel accessories under the tree (or maybe some Euros in our stocking), and the New Year to bring us days away from a naïve desire for jet lag.

A presto, Italia! See you soon, Italy!

Sara Sather, CSP Student
Italy Tour 2010