From Saint Mark’s Square to the Rialto Bridge, Venice lights up in gold to brighten the Christmas spirit
- The Rialto Bridge has been transformed into a screen for light shows once night falls
- Owing to the pandemic, ‘this Christmas is different from the others,’ said artist Fabrizio Plessi
Venice lacks the tourists who normally give it a festive air at Christmas, but the Italian city has nonetheless highlighted its landmarks to celebrate the holidays this year.
Saint Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge across the Grand Canal in particular benefit from special lighting and projections that give inhabitants some comfort in this time of coronavirus.
Italian artist Fabrizio Plessi created a Christmas tree on the square with huge rectangular screens that project a golden light.
They flood the area with warm light at night, reflecting off wet paving stones.
“My purpose is to light up this town, which needs light, which needs culture, which needs new emotions,” Plessi said.
Owing to the pandemic, “this Christmas is different from the others,” said Plessi, who with his white beard could himself pass for Santa Claus.