Venice is a city built not only on water and stone, but on centuries of myths, legends, and silent witnesses carved into its very walls. This unique walking tour is a journey through time, art, and mystery—revealing the hidden stories etched in the sculptures, friezes, bas-reliefs, and details that most visitors walk past without ever noticing.
Far from the crowds and clichés, this is not your typical tourist tour. Instead, you’ll uncover Venice through the language of stone—a silent language that speaks volumes about the city’s incredible history, its deep connection with the Byzantine Empire, and the powerful symbolism that shaped its past.
As your guide, a passionate local Venetian, I’ll take you on a captivating walk through some of the city’s most fascinating corners, blending art, architecture, legends, and storytelling. You’ll see the city with new eyes, learning to read its walls like pages of a forgotten book.
Along the way, we’ll explore various sestieri (neighborhoods) of Venice. While we won’t visit them all in a single tour, each itinerary is carefully curated and can include some of the following highlights:
In the heart of Venice, stories wait to be uncovered. We’ll meet the mysterious old lady of the mortar, gaze up at the imposing columns of San Marco, and interpret the symbols hidden in the Acritic Pilastri. Learn why two pink columns hold a dark past, and seek out dragons and crocodiles hiding in plain sight. Don’t miss the eerie glow of the red lights of San Marco, tied to legends of betrayal and punishment.
Here, Venice’s connection with the East is sculpted into its facades. Visit Campo dei Mori, where three enigmatic statues dressed in oriental robes have stood for centuries. Find the mysterious Palace of the Camel, a nod to the city’s mercantile past, and puzzle over the meaning of the Hercules high relief on a quiet wall.
This district holds some of the city’s most bizarre and humorous legends. Meet the Hunchback of Rialto, whose story is as twisted as his statue. Discover the disturbing tale behind the human head between the legs, and ponder the mystery of Canova’s tomb. Don’t miss the curious sculpture of the sleeping pope, a figure shrouded in satire and symbolism.
Wander through hidden corners filled with symbolic animals. Find lions in battle, observe mythical sea dragons, and uncover the stories these beasts were meant to tell in the context of Venice’s imperial power and spiritual beliefs.
A district filled with intrigue and legend. Hear the romantic and tragic tale of Melusina and the stone heart, trace the plague’s path with the red stone, and learn about the woman who saw Death in a dream. Look for the mysterious Devil’s Hole, and a strange mask said to scare the devil himself.
This tour is perfect for curious minds, history lovers, and anyone eager to go beyond postcards and gondolas. I’ll share lesser-known stories, local anecdotes, and fascinating curiosities that bring Venice to life in a truly personal and immersive way. Whether it’s your first time in Venice or your fifth, this experience offers a new layer of understanding and connection with the city.
You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship of Venetian stonework and the cultural codes hidden in its facades. These details are more than decoration—they’re messages from the past, meant to guide, warn, and inspire.
Let the stones speak, and Venice will never feel the same again. Book your journey into its legendary heart today!
- Aug, 03, 2024 -
Lucia was an excellent guide! She was friendly, knowledgeable, and fun. I have done several walking tours over the years and she is by far one of the best guides that we have had
- Aug, 11, 2023 -
A wonderful tour! You get to heart all sorts of unique items about Venice and its history and everyday life today. Lucia is fun, knowledgeable, personable and helpful. Her tour is well worth it!
- Sep, 02, 2023 -
Lucia gave us a fascinating 2 hours of fun, interesting facts and some amazing history of Venice. Stuff we’d never find by ourselves.
- May, 11, 2023 -
Lucia is a perfect storyteller and very kind person. Thanks to her I liked Venice much more.
- Apr, 23, 2023 -
Lucia is an excellent guide, extremely knowledgeable, kind and friendly. Everything was organised perfectly and we enjoyed everything from the private boat tour to the walking tour of venice. Her specialist knowledge of venetian art history and culture was also appreciated. I would and will definitely do more tours with Lucia :)
- Jan, 03, 2023 -
Walking Tour with Lucia The Walking Tour with Lucia Was great experience ce and pleasure. Lucia is very passionate and knowledgable Person. The Tour was very interesting and full of secret places which are hidden to the normal tourist. Strong recommendation!