góndolas

Góndolas are traditional, flat-bottomed Venetian rowing boats, well suited to the conditions of the Venetian lagoon. They are expertly steered by a gondolier, who uses a single oar in a sculling manner. The distinctive black hull of the gondola is a result of traditional coloring. Historically, gondolas were a primary mode of transport in Venice, but today they are mainly used for tourist purposes, offering scenic rides through the city's canals. Each gondola is approximately 11 meters long and 3.5 meters wide. The construction of a gondola is a complex process, with specialized craftsmen, known as maestri d'ascia, building the boats. The asymmetry of the gondola's design is intentional, allowing for easier steering by the single gondolier. The oar, called a remo, is typically made of wood and is held in a special oarlock called a forcola, which allows for a wide range of motion. The gondolier stands at the stern of the boat, controlling its direction and speed. While once a common sight for all Venetians, the cost and specialized nature of gondola operation mean they are now primarily a symbol of Venetian tourism.