Metropolitan City of Venice
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| Metropolitan City of Venice | |
|---|---|
| Name | Metropolitan City of Venice |
| Native name | Città Metropolitana di Venezia |
| Settlement type | Metropolitan City |
| Coordinates | 45, 26, N, 12... |
| Region | Veneto |
| Established title | Established |
| Established date | 1 January 2015 |
| Seat | Venice |
| Leader title | Metropolitan Mayor |
| Leader name | Luigi Brugnaro |
| Area total km2 | 2467.91 |
| Population total | 841,609 |
| Population as of | 2023 |
| Population density km2 | auto |
| Postal code | 30100 |
| Area code | 041, 0421, 0422, 0426, 0431 |
| Website | http://www.cittametropolitana.ve.it/ |
Metropolitan City of Venice is an administrative division of Italy, established in 2015, replacing the former Province of Venice. It is part of the Veneto region and encompasses the historic city of Venice along with a diverse mainland territory. The metropolitan city is a major cultural, economic, and logistical hub, centered on the iconic Venetian Lagoon and its port system.
History
The area's history is deeply intertwined with the Republic of Venice, a major maritime and commercial power that dominated the Mediterranean Sea for centuries. Following the republic's fall to Napoleon Bonaparte in 1797, the territory passed to the Austrian Empire before becoming part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1866. The modern metropolitan city was legislated by the Italian Parliament under law 56/2014, which reformed local government. Key historical events include the development of the Arsenal of Venice, the battles of the Italian Campaign (World War II), and the post-war industrial growth around Porto Marghera.
Geography
The territory is characterized by a stark contrast between its aquatic and terrestrial components. The eastern portion centers on the Venetian Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage site containing the islands of Venice, Murano, and Burano. The mainland extends westward, featuring the fertile plains of the Po Valley and bounded by rivers like the Brenta and the Piave. Major mainland municipalities include Mestre, Marghera, and Mirano, while the coastline along the Adriatic Sea includes popular beaches like those at Jesolo and Cavallino-Treporti.
Government and politics
The metropolitan city is governed by a Metropolitan Mayor, currently Luigi Brugnaro, who is also the mayor of Venice. The legislative body is the Metropolitan Council, whose members are drawn from the mayors and councilors of the 44 constituent comuni. Key administrative functions include strategic spatial planning, managing major road networks, and coordinating services across the territory. The institution works alongside the Veneto Regional Council and various local bodies like the Port Authority of Venice.
Economy
The economy is multifaceted, combining tourism, industry, commerce, and agriculture. Venice is a global tourism magnet, while the industrial zone of Porto Marghera is a historic center for petrochemicals and manufacturing. The Port of Venice is a crucial commercial gateway, handling cargo and cruise ship traffic. Important agricultural production includes wine from the DOC regions of the hinterland and horticulture. Major companies based here include the fashion group Diesel and the eyewear giant Luxottica.
Demographics
With a population exceeding 840,000, it is the most populous metropolitan city in Veneto. The population is concentrated in the mainland urban belt connecting Mestre, Marghera, and Spinea, while the historic center of Venice has experienced significant resident decline. Other sizable towns include Chioggia, a historic fishing center on the southern lagoon, and San Donà di Piave. The area has seen immigration, contributing to diverse communities.
Culture and landmarks
The area is an unparalleled cultural repository, home to landmarks like St Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge. It hosts major events including the Venice Biennale and the Venice Film Festival. The islands of Murano are famed for glassmaking, while Burano is known for lace. Mainland cultural sites include the Villa Pisani in Stra and the ancient city of Altinum. The entire Venice and its Lagoon site is protected by UNESCO.
Transport
Transport infrastructure is complex, balancing the needs of the lagoon city with mainland connectivity. The core of the system is the Venice People Mover and the Actv water bus network. Major rail connections are provided by Trenitalia via Venezia Mestre railway station and Venezia Santa Lucia railway station. Road access is via the A4 and A57 motorways. Venice Marco Polo Airport is the primary international airport, with Treviso Airport serving low-cost carriers.