VENICE

Halal-friendly vacations

The Islamic influence in Venice was represented in the rich luxury objects that the richest Venetians would keep as showpieces. Islamic keepsakes from the East were desired as a sign of luxury. The impact of Islamic art and architecture changed the Venetian art style - artists who traveled to Muslim countries painted the different architecture, clothing and people in awe and brought these paintings back to Europe where they were highly desired. Paintings of biblical subjects were also inspired by the Ottoman art style. Today, the Islamic influence in Venice remains deep within the astronomical and mathematical inventions that the Golden Age of Islam spread to Venice and other places around Europe.

Venice does have few mosques where you can perform your prayers. The Al-Rahma Mosque and Venezia Centro Islamico are in the center and easy to find. It is of great benefit to be able to meet the local Muslims of an area, where you can embrace and let the religion bring you together. However, remember to pack a prayer mat or “wudhu-mate” on your journeys, as there may not always be a mosque.

As the only pedestrian city in the world, Venice is a great opportunity for you and your family or friends to explore on foot and eat until your heart desires on your halal-friendly vacation. Italian cuisine is renowned around the world and most families devour pasta or a pizza at least once a week. Vacationing in Italy takes the game to a whole new level, when you can watch your favorite dishes come alive with fresh ingredients and herbs in an authentic setting. There are a few halal restaurants, mainly Turkish and other cuisines, around the area, and the halal sign will mostly be on display. If you are in doubt - do remember to ask. Most places also offer vegetarian meals, which is a helpful alternative.

Tip: Be sure to check that the sauces for the main meals or desserts, like Tiramisu, do not contain alcohol, as it is often a common ingredient. However, most places are able to make the dish without alcohol if you ask beforehand.

Any stay in Venice will consist mostly of sightseeing with the abundance of stunning and one-of-a-kind sights and architecture. Here are some suggestions of where to visit, but feel free to plan your itinerary around what suits you and what you would like to see on your halal-friendly vacation in Venice.

Bridge of Sighs
The Bridge of Sighs was built in the 1600s, connecting the interrogation rooms of the Doge Palace to the prison complex. The bridge was the last thing prisoners saw before their imprisonment, and was named to represent the prisoners' sighs before being incarcerated. The white limestone bridge overlooking the river attracts many tourists every year to see the ornate designs.

Piazza San Marco
The main square of Venice is a beautiful and majestic site. During the autumn and winter months, it can often be flooded causing the locals to don some rain boots through the high waters. The peaceful piazza is home to Venice’s three major sites: the Basilica di San Marco, the Torre dell’Orologio and the Doge’s Palace, and has many artisan and niche cafes where the locals relax and take in the sights around them.

Basilica di San Marco
One of the most iconic buildings in Venice and probably the most recognizable, the Basilica di San Marco is a fine example of Italo-Byzantine architecture. For lovers of Istanbul, many would be surprised to know that the design of the building was influenced by the Hagia Sophia with the mosaics, and ornate roofs that took centuries to build. First built in 828, it has been modified, enlarged, decorated, and rebuilt after the many fires during the centuries.

Rialto Bridge
The Rialto Bridge is a popular tourist attraction in Venice and has been rebuilt many times. It is the oldest of the four bridges, built in 1173, surrounding the Grand Canal - the main waterway of Venice. To feel like royalty, take a tour around the Grand Canal and under the Rialto Bridge, and admire the palaces that line the canal.

Doge's Palace
The Doge's Palace was built in 1340 and is a beautiful representation of the Venetian Gothic Style. The palace is famous as it was the home of the ‘Doge’ - the ruler of the Venetian Republic for more than 1,000 years. Paired with the beautiful architecture that seems to go on for miles, it is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Venice.

Torre dell’Orologio
The Torre dell’Orologio (The Clock Tower) is an imposing tower on the Piazza San Marco. The timepiece was once a symbol of Venice's power and control and still remains loved by the Venetians.