Tuto a bon fin pesate

This charming dog, gracing the entrance to the Palazzo Abadessa, proudly and succinctly expresses the perspective of many Venetians. Everything is good, until you start thinking. Or in the even more succinct parlance of Bob Marley “Don’t worry, be happy.” The perfect mantra for the casual traveler.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of walking through Venice is the likelihood that you will happen upon some whimsically adorned door, wall, balustrade, etc. The Venetians fill even the smallest, most out-of-the-way places with beauty.

As we walked the narrow walkways we kept our eyes open for unique treasures that Venice offers visitors who wander off of the tourist beaten paths. These walkways are veritable urban canyons, often less than 6 feet wide, that weave through buildings rising 3 to 5 stories on either side.