Geography
Which South American city is partially built on stilts over water?

Did you know that Venice, often dubbed the “City of Canals,” is an engineering marvel resting on millions of wooden piles?
Constructed over 118 small islands in a lagoon off the Adriatic Sea, this iconic city was founded in the 5th century to protect its inhabitants from invasions.
The wooden piles, primarily made from alder trees due to their water-resistant properties, were driven deep into the compacted clay beneath the lagoon.
Despite the seemingly destructive power of water, these submerged piles hardened over time due to the lack of oxygen, which preserved and strengthened the wood.
Today, Venice is not only a testament to the ingenuity of its medieval engineers but also a vibrant reminder of how human innovation can harmonize with nature’s challenges.
As climate change and rising sea levels present new threats, the city remains at the forefront of engineering feats, with projects like the MOSE flood barrier system underway to protect its unique and fragile environment.
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