Walls of Venice: The Costly Battle Against Flooding

The MOSE project in Venice involves constructing barriers to protect the city from high tides. It includes 78 barriers with spares for maintenance. The project faced operational challenges due to severe weather conditions, requiring up to 15 workers for operations. Testing is ongoing, and the project will activate only under specific conditions threatening the city. Despite high costs, the project aims to preserve Venice's cultural heritage. Future plans include completing ancillary work and protecting Saint Mark's Cathedral from flooding. The project is expected to be fully operational by 2021.

Why are there spare barriers for each lagoon entry in the Venice Lagoon?

• To improve the aesthetic appearance of the lagoon

• To reduce the cost of construction

• To allow for periodic maintenance without leaving gaps

• To increase the height of the barriers

What is the primary purpose of the MOSE floating barriers?

• To enhance the beauty of the Venice Lagoon

• To facilitate transportation across the lagoon

• To protect Venice from high tides under specific conditions

• To generate electricity for the city

What structural issues do Venice's buildings face due to high tides?

• They become more resistant to earthquakes

• Their structural integrity is undermined by rotting brickwork and wood

• Their foundations become stronger

• They become more energy efficient

By when is the MOSE project expected to be fully operational?

• By the end of 2023

• By the end of 2022

• By the end of 2021

• By the end of 2020

What is the estimated cost of the MOSE project?

• €10 billion

• €1 billion

• €3 billion

• €5 billion

What unique feature does Saint Mark's Cathedral have?

• Byzantine mosaics and an amazing crypt

• A large bell tower

• Gothic architecture

• Modern glass windows

What additional measure is being taken to protect Saint Mark's Square from flooding?

• Inserting anti-reflux valves to stop reverse flow of high tides

• Raising the ground level of the square

• Building a new drainage system

• Constructing a new barrier around the square