The perfect example of Modern Mecenatismo and a perfect Iter Vitis Destination
Venice and its lagoon preserve magical places, bubbles of enchantment that escape the barbaric hordes of overtourism. One of these is Venissa, the jewel of the Bisol family on the island of Mazzorbo. The beauty and uniqueness of Venissa lie not only in the location but also in the property’s and management’s ability to enhance the intangible Venetian heritage by involving artisans and artists in the Venissa project, and by reviving the ampelographic heritage through the cultivation of Dorona, an ancient indigenous grape variety. Venissa is a dive into the beauty and goodness of Native Venice. An unforgettable experience soon to be part of Iter Vitis.
The strategic investment in Venissa exemplifies a profound commitment to promoting the intangible cultural heritage of Venice while simultaneously advancing ampelography and sustainability. This multifaceted approach creates a synergy between cultural preservation and environmental stewardship, making Venissa not just a destination but a beacon of responsible and enriched tourism.
Promotion of Intangible Cultural Heritage
The Venissa project serves as a living museum of Venetian culture. By engaging local artisans and artists, it ensures that traditional crafts and artistic expressions continue to thrive. These efforts preserve the unique skills and cultural practices that define Venice’s identity, offering visitors an immersive experience that goes beyond mere sightseeing. Artisans at Venissa demonstrate techniques passed down through generations, providing a tactile and visual narrative of Venetian history. This commitment to cultural preservation helps safeguard Venice’s intangible heritage from the homogenizing forces of mass tourism.
Reviving Ampelographic Heritage
Venissa’s dedication to the cultivation of Dorona, an ancient grape variety native to the Venetian lagoon, represents a significant revival of the region’s ampelographic heritage. This grape, nearly lost to time, has been meticulously retrieved in a small vineyard in Torcello, restored and now flourishes once again in its historic terroir. The cultivation of Dorona is not merely an agricultural endeavor but a reclamation of a piece of Venice’s viticultural history. This initiative provides a living link to the past, allowing visitors to taste wines that echo the flavors enjoyed by Venetians centuries ago. The revival of Dorona underscores the importance of biodiversity and the preservation of genetic heritage in viticulture.
Sustainability at the Core
Venissa’s model of sustainability extends beyond the vineyard. The entire project is designed with environmental consciousness in mind, including organic farming practices . The cultivation methods employed are carefully chosen to protect the delicate ecosystem of the lagoon, ensuring that the natural beauty and resources of the area are preserved for future generations. This commitment to sustainability also includes educational programs for visitors, who learn about the importance of sustainable practices in viticulture and beyond. By integrating these principles into its operations, Venissa sets a benchmark for sustainable tourism and responsible land stewardship.
The investment in Venissa is a holistic approach that marries cultural, environmental, and educational objectives. Visitors to Venissa are not just passive tourists but active participants in a cultural and ecological revival. They have the opportunity to engage with local artisans, explore historical viticulture, and learn about sustainable practices, creating a rich, multi-layered experience that resonates on a deeper level.
Venissa’s inclusion in the Iter Vitis network underscores its importance on an international scale. Iter Vitis, dedicated to the preservation and promotion of wine heritage across Europe, provides Venissa with a platform to share its unique story with a broader audience. This affiliation highlights Venissa’s role as a model of integrating cultural heritage and sustainability in tourism. The global recognition through Iter Vitis not only enhances Venissa’s prestige but also encourages other regions to adopt similar holistic approaches to cultural and environmental preservation.
Venissa project is a shining example of how strategic investment can harmonize the promotion of intangible cultural heritage, the revival of ampelographic history, and the advancement of sustainability. It is a testament to the potential of tourism to be a force for good, fostering appreciation for cultural diversity, historical legacy, and environmental responsibility. By immersing visitors in the rich tapestry of Venice’s past and present, Venissa offers an unparalleled experience that honors the city’s heritage while paving the way for a sustainable future.
