On Sunday, June 1, the enchanting Festa della Sensa returns to the Venetian Lagoon, reviving the ancient ritual that celebrates Venice’s deep connection with the sea and its glorious maritime heritage. One of the most meaningful traditions of the city, the Sensa commemorates two key events in the Republic’s history and continues to embody the spirit of the Serenissima.
Dating back over a thousand years, the ceremony began as a mix of religious rite and symbolic gesture, asking for peace and calm from the sea. It later evolved into the “Marriage of the Sea”, a majestic ritual where the Doge would throw a golden ring into the Adriatic, declaring: “Desponsamus te, mare. In signum veri perpetuique dominii.” (“We marry you, oh sea, as a sign of true and everlasting dominion.”)
Today, this historic rite lives on through the efforts of the Festa della Sensa Committee and the Coordination of the Venetian Rowing Associations, who organize a magnificent water parade from St. Mark’s Basin to the Lido. The procession, led by the symbolic vessel Serenissima—carrying the Mayor and civic dignitaries—features dozens of traditional rowing boats in a dazzling display of heritage and pride.
With pageantry, tradition, and the timeless beauty of Venice, the Festa della Sensa continues to unite the city with its waters in a celebration of identity, culture, and history.
Website: www.comune.venezia.it
Location: Lagoon of Venice
Schedule: June 1, 2025
