“Arrecar detrimento all’acque.” That’s what the old stones say. What does it mean for Cippo di conterminazione lagunare n. 65? This phrase speaks to the heart of Venice’s long struggle to define and protect its lagoon.
The Cippo di conterminazione lagunare n. 65 stands as a silent witness. It shows the boundary between the lagoon’s briny embrace and the land. These cippi are not mere markers. They represent centuries of Venetian determination. They protect the delicate balance of their unique environment.
Back in the 1600s, Venice recognized the need to set clear boundaries. This was to protect its lagoon. The Republic wanted to enforce regulations safeguarding this vital ecosystem. After almost two centuries, the first cippi were erected. This happened between 1791 and 1792. Ninety-nine markers were made of terracotta.
But terracotta wasn’t strong enough to withstand the elements. Between 1846 and 1898, the terracotta cippi were replaced. They used durable Istrian stone. This Cippo di conterminazione lagunare n. 65 is one of those replacements. The line they created stretched 157 km. It defined the lagoon. It separated the brackish water from the surrounding land. To harm the water was to harm Venice itself.
Over time, the lagoon’s boundaries shifted. In 1924, the line was adjusted. This excluded areas like Conche and Fogolana in the southern lagoon. Concrete markers were added. They looked similar to the 19th-century cippi.
The most recent update came in 1990. This adjusted the boundary. It reflected natural and man-made changes. The current boundary includes the lagoon’s three port entrances and the island of S. Erasmo.
The Cippo di conterminazione lagunare n. 65 is more than a stone marker. It embodies Venice’s enduring commitment. The city protects its lagoon. It understands that the water is its lifeblood.
The cippi scattered around the lagoon act as guardians. They connect the present with the past. They remind us of Venice’s constant battle. The battle is to preserve its unique and fragile environment. Each cippo has a story. It speaks of laws, and a deep bond between a city and its waters. Next time you see one, remember the long history. Remember the efforts to protect Venice.