“What boundaries does it mark?” someone asks looking at the Cippo di conterminazione lagunare n. 45. This stone stands as a silent witness. It marks the edges of the Venice Lagoon.
The Cippo di conterminazione lagunare n. 45 is more than just a marker. It represents Venice’s historical understanding of its relationship with the water. In the late 18th century, Venice needed to define its lagoon limits. This was for legal, administrative, and geographical reasons.
Think back to 1791. The Republic of Venice decided to mark its lagoon boundary. They placed 99 boundary stones. These original markers were made of brick. Each Cippo featured an Istrian stone slab. The Lion of St Mark adorned each slab.
The Cippi di conterminazione defined the line between land and water. They protected the lagoon from unwanted construction. They prevented people from taking space from the water. The Republic even had severe penalties for violators. They understood the importance of the lagoon for the city’s defense. They knew too much fresh water could bring disease.
Over time, the original brick Cippi deteriorated. Between 1846 and 1898, they were replaced. The new Cippi were made of more durable Istrian stone. The Cippo di conterminazione lagunare n. 45 that you see today is one of these replacements.
In 1924, the lagoon boundary was modified. This excluded areas like Conche and Fogolana. Thirty more concrete Cippi were added. These marked the changes.
Another update came in 1990. The boundary needed to reflect natural and human-made changes. The new boundary included the lagoon’s three port entrances and the island of S. Erasmo.
The Cippo di conterminazione lagunare n. 45 has silently witnessed changes for over two centuries. It’s a part of the “La Laguna dei Cippi” project. This project documents the changes in the lagoon. Participants take photos from the perspective of the lion. The project gathers information to understand the lagoon’s evolution.
We Are Here Venice supports this project. They encourage people to explore the lagoon from a unique viewpoint. They invite everyone to learn about its transformations. It is a chance to contribute to knowledge. This knowledge concerns the lagoon’s precious ecosystem.
Today, many of the Cippi are in poor condition. Some are covered in vegetation. Others face the threat of destruction. Projects like “Adotta un Cippo” aim to protect them. Citizens can help by reporting any threats or damage to these historical markers.
So, as you stand before the Cippo di conterminazione lagunare n. 45 remember its role. It defined Venice’s lagoon. It protected the city. It continues to witness the lagoon’s ever-changing story. Its presence reminds us of the delicate balance between land and water.