Vogalonga 2012: how to save Venice from the waves with the revival of the most antique traditions

03 June 2012

On the 3rd of June one of the greatest events in Venice is back. Now in its 38th edition, the Vogalonga attracts every year rowers from all around the world to celebrate the tradition of voga veneta (literally Venetian rowing).

The voga veneta, a sport discipline typical of Venice, boasts many followers and thanks to them one of most important annual events in Venice has been taking place since 1975: the Vogalonga, a non competitive regatta with rowing boats of all types, which has been growing year after year and has become an international event.

Considered an act of love towards Venice, its lagoon and islands, the Vogalonga started with the intention of reinstating the rowing boat in a Venice lagoon laden with motorboats, a new way to transmit and respect the nature and culture of Venice.

During its past editions Vogalonga has continued to improve its peaceful crusade and is gathering more and more support for the restoration of the most antique Venice traditions, against the destruction of waves and the decline of this wonderful and unique city in the world.

The first edition of Vogalonga turned out to be a pleasant surprise for everyone, even for the actual organisers who were not expecting such a display: 500 silent boats with around 1500 participants, with teams from the Adriatic coast and the mainland up to Lombardia and Piemonte joining the inhabitants of Venice. The initial sound of cannon fire followed by the swish of the rows paddling on the calm waters of St Marks lagoon was a silent awakening for Venice, which found in this way a new form and voice. The course of Vogalonga is around 30 kilometres long: the start is opposite St Marks square, the rowers will then cross the lesser known part of the Venice lagoon - the Vignole islands, St Erasmo, St Francis of the Deserto, through Burano, Mazzorbo and Murano. The Vogalonga will finish in Venice, along the Cannaregio canal and the Canal Grande, until the Punta della Dogana in front of St Marks.

The Vogalonga is open to everyone! It is one of the most awaited events in Venice, an unparalleled and exciting show to remind everyone of the importance and the need to respect the environment.