Being an intrepid explorer (and wholly unprepared, as ever), I entered Venice without a map or any clear idea of where I was or wanted to go. It was in this circular, doubling-up and shadow following manner that we ended up in this unusual bookshop.
I have to admit, following the initial feast on the eyes of piles upon piles of books, the smell was the second thing to reach me.
This incredible little shop was filled from floor to ceiling with books of all ages and genres, all packed into boats, bathtubs, buckets, and anything else the owner thinks might be waterproof in an emergency. Books were in all languages, piled knee deep on every surface. Not for those allergic to cats, which appeared to be sleeping in and among the boats and books. The owner was casually feeding one strips of meat from between stacks of Dantes Divine Comedy.
Acqua Alta is an exceptionally high tide. Some venetians put flood plates in place, others leave work early and don welly-boots. This bookshop owner decided instead to 'float his stock'. (haha, see what I did there?)
Judging my the mouldy aroma, this gentlemans waterproofing was hardly effective, but it was a sight to behold!
Just wanted to draw your attention to the 'Fire Exit', which appears to instruct us to jump and swim.
Just in case you wanted to visit, this little bookshop can be found at Calle Longa Santa Maria Formosa (Campiello Del Tintor) | 5176 - Castello, 30122 Venice, Italy.
I have to admit, following the initial feast on the eyes of piles upon piles of books, the smell was the second thing to reach me.
This incredible little shop was filled from floor to ceiling with books of all ages and genres, all packed into boats, bathtubs, buckets, and anything else the owner thinks might be waterproof in an emergency. Books were in all languages, piled knee deep on every surface. Not for those allergic to cats, which appeared to be sleeping in and among the boats and books. The owner was casually feeding one strips of meat from between stacks of Dantes Divine Comedy.
Acqua Alta is an exceptionally high tide. Some venetians put flood plates in place, others leave work early and don welly-boots. This bookshop owner decided instead to 'float his stock'. (haha, see what I did there?)
Judging my the mouldy aroma, this gentlemans waterproofing was hardly effective, but it was a sight to behold!
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Just wanted to draw your attention to the 'Fire Exit', which appears to instruct us to jump and swim.
Just in case you wanted to visit, this little bookshop can be found at Calle Longa Santa Maria Formosa (Campiello Del Tintor) | 5176 - Castello, 30122 Venice, Italy.
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