Saturday, September 4, 2010

Venice Webcam for the Regatta Storica 2010

The Regata Storica is one of the most spectacular, picturesque and moving events of Venetian life, capable of both charming the tourists and exciting the locals.

This live webcam on the Grand canal will capture the main events live:

Venice Regatta Storica webcam

Event information:

The historical water pageant commemorates the welcome given to Caterina Cornaro, wife of the King of Cyprus, in 1489, after she renounced her throne in favour of Venice. Scores of typically 16th century-style boats with gondoliers in period costume carry the Doge, his wife and all the highest ranking Venetian officials up the Grand Canal in a brightly coloured parade, with the famous Bucintoro, the boat representing the Serenissima, at its head.

Then, many different races take place: the champions regatta in "gondolini", the regatta in "caorline", the women's regatta in "mascarete", the young rowers' regatta in "pupparini". The spectators participate with gusto and shouts of encouragement.

Water is the element that most characterises Venice and it is no coincidence that the most famous and spectacular festivity in the city takes place on the waters of the Grand Canal. The spectacular event starts with a magnificent historical procession consisting of splendid, elaborately carved boats complete with hundreds od figures in gorgeous brocade costume.