You see these everywhere in Venice: a small platform on the roof of a building, often appearing rickety and precariously attached. This is a rooftop terrace (Altana, in Italian). Venetians have been building them for centuries, and they are used for a variety of purposes: hanging laundry out to dry, growing potted plants, or simply relaxing and enjoying some sun, fresh air, and “dolce far niente” – the sweetness of doing nothing. There was an altana attached to our apartment, and from this perch we could watch gondolas and water taxis navigating the intersection of two canals below.
(Text and photo courtesy of Julian.)
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