What is the symbol on a gondola?

The symbols of the prow The metal decoration in front of the gondola is called “fero” (literally “iron”) and its shape is not random. In fact, each part of the “fero” refers to something related to the history of Venice.



The most prominent symbol on a Venetian gondola is the Ferro da Prua (the "iron of the prow"), the distinctive metal ornament at the very front of the boat. Every detail of the Ferro is symbolic of Venice: the S-shape represents the curves of the Grand Canal; the main "comb" consists of six prongs (or denti) representing the six districts (sestieri) of Venice; a single prong facing backward represents the island of Giudecca. The stylized curve at the very top represents the Doge’s hat (the Corno Ducale), while the small arch above the top prong symbolizes the Rialto Bridge. Beyond its symbolism, the Ferro serves a vital practical purpose: it acts as a counterweight to the gondolier standing at the back of the boat, keeping the narrow vessel balanced in the water. It also serves as a "bumper" to protect the expensive wooden hull from nicks and scratches in the tight, crowded canals of the city.

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The ornament on the front of the boat is called the fèrro (meaning iron) and can be made from brass, stainless steel, or aluminium. It serves as decoration and as counterweight for the gondolier standing near the stern. Gondolas at their moorings 5-toothed fero on old gondolas.

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They're always painted black (six coats) — the result of a 17th-century law a doge enacted to eliminate competition between nobles for the fanciest rig. But each has unique upholstery, trim, and detailing, such as the squiggly-shaped, carved-wood oarlock (fórcula) and metal hood ornament (ferro).

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In the old days, four gondoliers typically shared ownership of a single gondola, with three oarsmen to row the boat and an additional person on a dock who helped bring it ashore again. But modern gondolas and gondoliers are strictly controlled by a guild that oversees the boats' production, maintenance, and licensing.

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The keel, thus, is not straight but it bends to the right, so that the gondola floats particularly tilted on the right-hand side. That allows the counterbalancing of the push of the only oar which would tend to carry it to the left side. It has got a flat bottom which let it sail in shallow water.

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The Gondoliers were dressed mostly in black to match the color of the Gondola. Some wore all white. After World War 2, The stripes became a part of the uniform. Some say they were to match the striped poles in front of the Palazzo's on the Grand Canal.

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Giorgia Boscolo! It was her! For over 900 years, only men could hold the gondolier position. Then in 2010, Giorgia Boscolo became the first gondoliera in Venetian history.

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It's not easy to become a gondolier Prospective gondoliers must complete 400 hours of training before passing a test to prove their knowledge of how to operate a gondola, Venetian landmarks and history, and language skills. Little wonder that only three or four gondolier licences are issued each year.

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Yes. Purchase of a Scenic Gondola ticket is good for one trip up and one trip down. How long does it take to get to the top? The Scenic Gondola ride is about 12 minutes.

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The gondoliers do not sing. To protect the income of professional singers and song writers, if a gondolier sings, he can be fined €1000. Also, there are 480 gondolas in Venice and most of the rowers are the sons of their gondolier fathers. A license can cost € 120,000, so they inherit their fathers' license.

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How much can a gondola driver expect to earn? This is one of the most highly-regarded and sought-after professions in Italy. Its training may be rigorous, but it's certainly worth it - a Venetian gondolier can expect to earn around $150,000 each year.

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