Culture

Floods, coronavirus leave Venice streets empty

Venice (Italy), Apr 8 (EFE), (Camera: Avedis Hadjian).- Venice canals run clear and the most touristic spots in the city are emptier than ever after the floods hit the historic centre in November and, more recently, the coronavirus pandemic has forced locals to stay at home. FOOTAGE OF THE CITY OF VENICE. SOUNDBITES OF:1.-Store owner: “When I was a boy, 40 years ago, Venice was beautiful. It was full of people, full of business, there were no supermarkets. There was tourism and there were also Venetians."2.-Anna Lazaris, retired: "Venetians can't live (like this), those who do not have a little economic opportunity have all moved to Mestre and in Venice only those little fortunate people can stay."3.- Sandro Franchini, Veneto Institute of Science, Literature and Arts: “The last days, the desert the city have become into reminded me of the winter months when I was a kid and Venice was practically deserted. The fact is that conditions have drastically changed since there are actually 100,000 residents missing here."4.- Antonella Baretton, accountant: “For me, after this emergency that we hope it ends (soon), the city must rethink this, which is its way of being. Sacrifices must be made and the city must be conceived not only and exclusively as a hotel with a single purpose."5.- Antonella Baretton: “Here, the tourism monoculture must end, I hope it does. Otherwise, this is the best example: what do you see? A city that, in fact, no longer has residents these days."6.- Sandro Franchini: “It is a great lesson not only for Venice but for everyone, it is a situation that is taking place on a global level. For us, here at home, we should think about reversing some choices we made some years ago."