Regata Storica is one of the most spectacular events in Venice, held on the first Sunday of September. This celebration combines a colorful historical reenactment featuring a parade of 16th-century boats with thrilling Venetian rowing competitions. The event symbolizes the city’s deep connection to water, celebrates its maritime heritage, and showcases the unique art of rowing, as gondoliers in historical costumes glide along the Grand Canal.
The tradition of the Regata dates back to the 13th century and was originally associated with the Festa delle Marie. Likely, in a city always oriented toward the sea, such races were held even earlier as training for rowers. The first visual evidence comes from 1500AD, when Jacopo de’ Barbari’s map of Venice depicted boats labeled “regata.” Since then, the regatta has become a favorite subject for artists capturing Venice’s festive atmosphere.
The historical parade preceding the races reenacts the reception in honor of Caterina Cornaro, Queen of Cyprus, who renounced her throne in favor of Venice in 1489. Dozens of brightly decorated 16th-century vessels participate in the parade, carrying the Doge, the Dogaressa, Caterina herself, and the high officials of the Venetian Republic — an exact recreation of the glorious past of one of the most influential maritime powers of the Mediterranean.
Originally, regattas were divided into gondolier competitions and “grand races” organized to celebrate exceptional events. Funding came from private individuals, often supported by foreign patrons. After the fall of the Republic in 1797, the tradition did not disappear, and in 1841 the regatta became a municipal event. Following Venice’s annexation to the Kingdom of Italy in 1966, the races became a way to honor the Republic’s maritime heritage. The regatta received its name “Storica” (Historical) in 1899 at the suggestion of Venice’s mayor, Count Filippo Grimani, during the III International Art Biennale.