Venice’s REGATA STORICA is one of the city’s most important, magnificent and fascinating historical and sporting events.
The historical regatta commemorates the triumphal procession organised in 1489 to welcome the Queen of Cyprus, Caterina Cornaro, following her abdication in favour of Venice.
The race between gondolas and various types of boat is preceded by a procession of typical Venetian craft known as bissoni bearing rowers and people in period dress, including the Doge and Caterina Cornaro. It takes place along the Canal Grande to the applause of thousands of spectators along the route, watching from quaysides, the windows of the houses and special platforms resting on barges anchored along the canal banks.
A festival reviving the splendour and magnificence of the Serenissima Republic and a sporting event deeply felt and important for the city of Venice.
