Venice and Mantua host traditional boat festivals

In Venice, the Regata dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo took place on the lagoon, featuring youth and veteran crews racing in historic Venetian rowing boats. The event, praised by local officials, highlighted the city’s connection to its maritime heritage and aimed to engage new generations in the tradition.

In Borgo Angeli, a district of Mantua, the annual procession of San Pietro was revived with illuminated boats gliding on Lake Superiore. The ceremony included the blessing of vessels by the bishop of Mantua and the transport of the statue of Saint Peter to a final liturgical service, reinforcing the community’s historic ties to the lake and its fishing roots.