For the first time in history, a woman wins the right to take the oar and row a gondola in Venice
There are still careers that until recently were considered as acceptable jobs only for men. This is the case with one of the oldest and most traditional vocations, being a gondolier. These rowers are perhaps the most known symbolic figure of Venice in the world. To those visiting the city of canals for the first time, taking a ride on a Gondola through the suggestive and mysterious Venetian canals is essential.
Records and history about “gondolieri” go back to the early eleventh century; however it is only recently that Venice can count on the first female gondolier, who has 425 male colleagues. Giorgia Boscolo is only 24 years old, and last year passed one round of intense tests to become a gondolier with flying colours, but was only recently was granted the official title. Aspiring Gondoliers should first and foremost, carry out a 400 hour course during which they learn to manage their 11 meter long boat, and navigate the intricate and narrow canals of Venice with a single oar. They should be able to communicate fluently in at least one foreign language, because as everyone knows, Venice is a major international tourist destination.
Giorgia has had a passion for rowing since childhood, a passion that was passed down to her by the father. He himself exercised this profession for 40 years. The course she passed was attended by two other women, the Venetian Alessandra Taddei and American Alexandra Hai, but both of the other women failed the test.
However, the first female gondolier has raised quite a controversy, as well attracting many supporters. Interestingly among the sceptics, there is the father of the protagonist, Dante Boscolo, who admitted that he considered the office of gondolier to be male activity, although he did express confidence in the capabilities of his daughter.
A gondolier’s job is not easy, especially since they must row on rain or shine, summer or winter, but it is very gratifying. Gondoliers know they are keeping alive a very old custom which has no equivalent anywhere in the world. Taking a spin in a gondolier is an experience that you simply cannot miss. After a memorable spin around town on a gondola, you can relax renting comfortable apartments in Venice.
