The grand illusion of Venice on tourism

Yes, it’s the most unlikely, the most mysterious, the most heart-stoppingly beautiful city in the world. But it’s also the most overrun: by tides, by crowds, and increasingly by commerce. Is there a real Venice behind the one we all see when we visit? Or is this it — this crowded, cultural theme park? Read more: Grand illusion
AP Photo/Luigi Costantini

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Yes, it’s the most unlikely, the most mysterious, the most heart-stoppingly beautiful city in the world. But it’s also the most overrun: by tides, by crowds, and increasingly by commerce. Is there a real Venice behind the one we all see when we visit? Or is this it — this crowded, cultural theme park?

Read more: Grand illusion