Laguna Veneta
Quick Summary
The Laguna Veneta, or Venice Lagoon, is a shallow body of water located in the northeastern part of Italy, at the northwestern end of the Adriatic Sea. This crescent-shaped lagoon stretches approximately 32 miles (51 km) and is protected by a line of sandbanks called lidi.1
Originally formed by the interaction of Adriatic tidal currents and several Alpine rivers, the lagoon has been vital to the survival of Venice. Its mud banks, shallows, and channels have provided income from marine and bird life, as well as salt pans. The lagoon also served as a natural defense and a means of waste disposal, with tides flushing the city's canals twice daily.1
However, the lagoon faces challenges. Channel deepening, freshwater extraction, rising sea levels, and land subsidence have led to increased flooding, known as acqua alta. Efforts to manage these issues, including proposals for mechanical barrages, have been complicated by administrative complexities and concerns about ecological impact.1
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