Introduction: Venice and Its Gondolas
When you picture Venice, chances are you imagine a gondola gliding gracefully down a canal. But have you ever wondered where gondolas are made and repaired?
The answer lies in the squero—one of Venice’s most fascinating and historic places.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
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What a squero is.
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Why they are so important to Venetian culture.
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How gondolas are built and maintained.
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The most famous squeri you can see today.
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And how to visit them with a local guide for a deeper, insider experience.
What Exactly Is a Squero?
A squero is a traditional Venetian boatyard where gondolas and other lagoon boats are built and repaired.
The word comes from the Venetian dialect, linked to “squara,” meaning a group of workers who would collaborate on boat construction.
Think of it as the Venetian equivalent of a car garage—but instead of cars, you’ll find sleek black gondolas, wooden oars, and master craftsmen shaping boats by hand.
Why Are Squeri Important in Venice?
Gondolas are not just tourist attractions—they are symbols of Venice, tied to the city’s identity for centuries.
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Each gondola is handmade. No two are exactly the same.
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Traditional techniques survive. Gondoliers still rely on artisans who use skills passed down through generations.
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Venetian heritage. Squeri preserve the craftsmanship that keeps Venice’s maritime culture alive.
Without squeri, gondolas might disappear, and Venice would lose a vital part of its soul.
How Gondolas Are Built in a Squero
Building a gondola is an art. It takes months of work and incredible attention to detail.
Materials
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Gondolas are made from eight types of wood, including oak, cherry, walnut, and fir.
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Each piece is chosen for strength, flexibility, or resistance to water.
Design
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The gondola is asymmetrical—slightly longer on one side. This allows it to glide smoothly with just one oar.
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The iconic ferro (iron prow) balances the boat and symbolizes Venice’s districts.
Process
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Selecting and seasoning wood.
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Assembling the curved hull.
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Adding details like seats and decorations.
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Painting the gondola black (a tradition dating back centuries).
A gondola can last decades, but it requires regular maintenance—another role of the squero.
The Most Famous Squeri in Venice
Not all squeri are open to visitors, but a few have become landmarks.
Squero di San Trovaso
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The most famous squero in Venice.
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Located in the Dorsoduro district, near the San Trovaso church.
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Easily recognizable by its Alpine-style wooden workshop.
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Built by craftsmen originally from the Dolomites, which explains the mountain chalet look.
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Still active today—you might see gondolas being repaired while you watch from across the canal.
Squero Tramontin
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Founded in 1884 by Domenico Tramontin.
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Known for innovation, including introducing the modern gondola shape.
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Still run by the Tramontin family, who preserve this rare tradition.
Other Squeri
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A few smaller squeri exist around Venice and the lagoon, but they are often private and hidden from tourists.
Visiting a Squero: Can Tourists Go Inside?
Most squeri are working boatyards, not tourist attractions.
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San Trovaso Squero is the easiest to admire from outside. There’s a great view from the opposite bank, where you can stop for a drink at a bacaro (wine bar).
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Some squeri, like Tramontin, occasionally open for private visits or cultural events.
👉 This is where a licensed local guide makes all the difference. At Tour Leader Venice, we can arrange private visits and artisan experiences that regular tourists miss.
Why Squeri Matter Beyond Gondolas
Squeri are more than workshops—they’re symbols of Venice’s resilience.
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They connect the city to its lagoon and boat-building traditions.
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They remind us that Venice is still a living city, not just a tourist postcard.
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Supporting them helps preserve skills that could otherwise vanish.
Frequently Asked Questions (SEO-Friendly)
What does “squero” mean in Venice?
A squero is a traditional Venetian boatyard where gondolas and other lagoon boats are built and repaired.
Can I visit a squero in Venice?
Yes, you can view San Trovaso Squero from outside, and with a guide, sometimes arrange private visits to workshops like Tramontin.
How long does it take to build a gondola?
About 6–12 months, depending on the complexity and craftsmanship involved.
Why are gondolas black?
Since the 16th century, Venice has required gondolas to be painted black to avoid excessive luxury displays.
How many squeri are left in Venice?
Only a handful remain active today—less than 5 still focus on gondolas.
Why Discover a Squero with Tour Leader Venice
Most visitors walk past San Trovaso, snap a photo, and move on. But with Tour Leader Venice, you get the full story:
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Private artisan visits with gondola makers.
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Stories of Venice’s maritime past.
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Context about gondoliers, traditions, and symbolism.
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A chance to see authentic Venetian craftsmanship in action.
We turn what might be a “quick stop” into a meaningful cultural experience.
Conclusion: The Magic of a Squero
So, what is a squero in Venice?
It’s a boatyard. A workshop. A place where gondolas are born, repaired, and maintained. But more than that—it’s a window into Venice’s history, culture, and identity.
Visiting a squero reminds us that Venice is not just a city of palaces and canals—it’s a city built on craftsmanship, tradition, and ingenuity.
👉 To truly appreciate this side of Venice, let Tour Leader Venice guide you behind the scenes. From gondola makers to glassblowers, we’ll help you discover the artisans who keep Venice alive.
