Malamocco, at the southern end of the Lido island, was the first ancient nucleus of Venice, capital of the Venetian Dogado between 742 and 811, until it was decided to move its headquarters in Rialto. In the rooms of the first residence of the Podestà or Magistrate, today there is a permanent exhibition of archaeological finds discovered in the local area. The museum is open from Friday to Sunday, to book a visit – that also includes a tour of the ancient village – please contact (0039) 347 4144035.
Having a walk around is like taking a dip in the past: calli, campi and small squares have remained those of the past, as have the festivals and popular traditions, still very appreciated by the locals.
The Feast of Madonna di Marina is a typical local festival celebrated every year in July, this year from 7 to 14 July. Its origins date back to the 14th century, when according to the legend the Virgin Mary appeared to a inhabitant of Malamocco who was collecting wood along the beach.
The celebrations last almost a week, during which, besides the events tied to the religious tradition, there are also concerts, dances, markets and handicraft exhibitions; the celebrations are concluded by the fireworks display and the final tombola (bingo).
From the Lido, you can reach Malamocco by bus (line A), by car (via the Actv ferry boat line 17 Tronchetto-Lido, San Nicolò-Punta Sabbioni) or by bicycle (you can rent one at the Lido or carry your own bike by the Actv ferry boat).
From Chioggia, you can get to Malamocco by the Actv waterbus line 11.