Sottomarina between the beach, Murazzi and Tegnùe

Sottomarina between the beach and history

Sottomarina lies on the Adriatic Sea and combines a beach area with a historically shaped townscape. The beach stretches in the north from the Diga di San Felice to the Diga sul Brenta in the south. This creates a clearly defined stretch of coast between two dams. For you, this means choosing between coastal and cultural interests without having to separate the two. When choosing a hotel in Sottomarina, these different focuses can serve as an initial guide. Culture enthusiasts will encounter different historical connections in Sottomarina at the Murazzi and in the old fishing village.

The Murazzi and the old fishing village

The Murazzi consist of large blocks of Istrian stone. As the last surviving work of its kind, the walls recall the structures built by the Serenissima before its fall. The Murazzi of Sottomarina are 1,270 metres long; today, several sections have been demolished, including a larger one between the Todaro School and the Institute of the Serve di Maria nuns. A guided private tour takes you on a walk along the Murazzi in Sottomarina.

Sottomarina is connected to the municipality of Chioggia by the Isola dell’Unione bridge. The old part of Sottomarina is an ancient fishing village with a rich history and strong traditions. In this part of town, you can rediscover the Venetian and popular atmosphere of nearby Chioggia.

Tegnùe: reef, protected area and guided dives

Off the coast of Sottomarina, the protected Tegnùe of Chioggia area extends across the Adriatic Sea. The Tegnùe are a natural reef in the Adriatic, formed by reef-building red algae. The area is protected as a Biological Protection Zone, where fishing is prohibited. Divers can explore the Tegnùe along guided routes. The red algae form the foundation of the reef, while the Biological Protection Zone excludes fishing from this marine area.

Village, cycle path and sailing

Village is a free-admission amusement park in the centre of Sottomarina. The park offers more than 20 attractions for visitors of all ages.

Sottomarina’s waterfront has a peaceful cycle path connecting the Diga di Sottomarina with the Diga del Brenta. In addition, Sottomarina’s moderate, steady winds favour sailing.

Fishing tradition at the Diga di Sottomarina

Along the Diga di Sottomarina there are stilt-like structures where fishing is carried out with a bilancia. This is a large, square lift or drag net. Some of the fishermen’s huts located there are known as “balanse” and have been prepared for fish tourism. Visitors can enjoy rustic dishes from the Chioggia tradition while taking in the view. The Diga thus brings together the work of the fishermen, the restored huts and the dishes of the Chioggia tradition.

Further destinations for orientation: Isolaverde Di Chioggia, Cavanella D'adige, Ca' Zennare.

For the overarching travel overview: Chioggia.