AESOP 2024 HEADS OF SCHOOLS MEETING | CITY TOURS

City Tour 1 - dr. Marta De Marchi, IUAV

The countryside in the lagoon: exploring the minor Venetian islands
9:30 - 12:30
Explore the island of Sant'Erasmo, the countryside of the Venice lagoon, where food politics, food landscapes and proximity cuisine converge. Immerse yourself in the food politics of Venice, discovering the sustainable agricultural practices that characterize the island. Learn about local initiatives that contribute to a resilient food system, preserving cultural heritage in the fertile land. At the heart of this tour is the concept of food proximity, evident in the cuisine of Sant'Erasmo. Engage with local farmers to understand how growing seasonal and locally sourced products not only sustain the community, but also create a deep connection between consumers and the lagoon to discover the meticulous planning that fosters a harmonious relationship between agriculture and nature.

City Tour 2 - dr. Luca Velo, IUAV

A walk through public housing neighbourhoods in Venice old town
9:30 - 12:30
Explore Venice through a unique architectural and urban planning tour through some neighbourhoods where, in the past, successful experiences of public housing projects have been developed. Embark on a journey through contexts designed by famous architects and urban planners, who seamlessly integrated modern structures and elements with this city's unique historical urban fabric and cultural heritage. Explore the hierarchies of alleys, porches, private and common spaces created by the architects in the Giudecca island, and understand their great design sensitivity in paying homage, while offering a modern (re)interpretation, to the urban character of Venice. This tour not only reveals Venice's hidden treasures, but also highlights the vital role of public housing projects in shaping the history, culture, and vitality of these neighbourhoods.

City Tour 3 - prof. Caterina Balletti, IUAV

Discovering Venice through its 'squeri' (traditional artisan shipyards)
9:30 - 12:30
Embark on a walking tour of Venice by discovering the city's historic shipyards (squero) and rowing (remiere) societies. Begin your adventure by exploring the characteristic squeri, ancient shipyards where skilled craftsmen have been shaping Venice's iconic boats such as gondolas and sandals for generations. In the oldest and most renowned shipyards of the city, the traditional art of boat building has been handed down through the ages. Admire the craftsmanship of the shipwrights who work passionately to preserve the magnificence of Venetian boats and learn about the history of this shipyard, its millennia-old origins, and its role in keeping the ancient tradition of wooden shipbuilding alive. This tour will immerse you in the nautical roots of Venice, allowing to appreciate the art of adze and the mastery of Venetian rowing. An unforgettable experience that will transport you into the history and traditions of this extraordinary lagoon city.