Grand Canal, Venice, Italy

© Alexander Duffner/Alam

Info. The Regata Storica on the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy

The Regata Storica happens every September on the Grand Canal in Venice. It is the highlight of the Venetian rowing calendar and consists of two parts: a historical boat parade and a series of rowing races. Celebrations begin with a regal water pageant containing colourful boats from the 16th century. Gondoliers are dressed in costume as they ferry high-ranking officials up the canal and recreate Venice’s storied maritime past. The regatta commemorates the welcome given in 1489 to Caterina Cornaro, the wife of the King of Cyprus, who renounced her throne in favour of Venice.