The Gulf of Venice is a geographical feature located in the northern part of the Adriatic Sea, positioned between the eastern coast of Italy and the western coast of Croatia and Slovenia. It stretches from the island of Pelagosa in the south to the Po River Delta in the north.
This semi-enclosed body of water is characterized by its shape, akin to a crescent or an elongated triangle, and covers a total area of about 2,200 square miles (5,700 square kilometers). It is primarily surrounded by Italy to the west and southwest, with regions such as Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and Emilia-Romagna boasting shorelines along the Gulf. The eastern coastline consists of Croatia's Istria region and a small portion of Slovenia.
The Gulf of Venice serves as an important waterway that connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Po River, facilitating various commercial and maritime activities. It is renowned for its significance in the shipping and trading sectors, with several major ports lining its shores. Additionally, the gulf supports a diverse range of marine life and ecosystems, making it a crucial area for fishing and tourism.
Notable islands within the Gulf of Venice include the Venetian Lagoon islands, such as Lido, Murano, and Burano, as well as the Croatian islands of Cres, Krk, and Rab. The gulf also borders the renowned city of Venice, widely recognized for its historical significance, art, and distinctive architecture, which further enhances the allure of the Gulf of Venice as a captivating and culturally rich region.
