Discovering the secrets of the Venetian gondola: guided tour to the Tramontin “squero”
Participants will have the opportunity to learn the history and the technical characteristics of one the most celebrated symbols of Venice and its culture: the gondola. Elena Tramontin, descendant of Domenico, who founded the squero (boatyard) in 1884 and revolutionised the design of the gondola so that it needs just one gondolier to row it, will explain the evolution of this unique boat and illustrate the various phases of the manufacturing process, from the careful choice of wood to the black painting. Gondolas are still hancrafted using the basic tools of the ancient art of Venetian boatbuilding: axe, plane saw and hammer.
Domenico Tramontin e Figli
BoatbuildingInnovation has become tradition at the Tramontin gondola boatyardThe “squero” (or gondola boatyard) is named after Domenico Tramontin e Figli, and has been handcrafting gondolas since Domenico Tramontin founded the workshop in 1884. Roberto, Domenico’s great-grandson, ran the workshop in recent years, until his daughters Elena and Elisabetta took over the family business. A team of expert artisans work by hand to create the distinctive Venetian boats, still using the design created by Domenico that truly revolutionised the gondola manufacturing. Before Domenico’s innovation, a gondola would require two gondoliers to row it, but Domenico pioneered the curved bottom of the boat so that the weight imbalance creates a natural bias towards one side. As a result, the gondola can be propelled from one side, without altering its course.
Audio guide
A free audio guide, available to stream from 10 April to 1 May, will enhance your experience of Homo Faber in Citta. Discover more about Venice, its crafts workshops and its heritage as a city of craftsmanship, to complement your personal tour.
ListenWhere you'll be
30124, Venice
+39 0415237762 Send an email Website
Things to know
- Guest requirements
Please stay informed about the latest Covid safety requirements in Venice and comply with any requests from the venues you visit, to ensure the safety of yourself and the participating artisans.
- When to arrive
Make sure you arrive on time at each venue (although no more than ten minutes early), to make the most of your experience and the artisan’s time. Please call the venue ahead of time if you are likely to be late.
- Cancellation policy
Please let us know if you wish to cancel your booking so that we may offer the opportunity to another visitor. Cancel or rebook directly on your account or via your confirmation or reminder email. If cancelling on the day of your event, kindly inform the venue by telephone.
