Queer Venice: Gay History Tour from Past to Present

Step into a fascinating journey through the centuries to discover the hidden queer history of Venice, a city whose past is as intricate as its canals. Learn about Rolandina, one of the earliest known transgender figures in Italy, and explore how gender identity and same-sex relationships were perceived in different eras. From the Middle Ages, when such practices were condemned, to the lively centuries that followed, this tour reveals how Venice evolved from secrecy and persecution to tolerance and artistic celebration. Walk through the same streets where travelers of the Grand Tour explored freedom and beauty, and learn how writers like Thomas Mann and Frederick Rolfe transformed Venice into a symbol of desire, passion, and self-expression.

Continue your journey into the modern era as you uncover how the city was shaped by social reforms and the cultural movements that followed. Hear stories of resilience and acceptance, and see how Venice today celebrates diversity with pride. Along the way, discover the city’s connection to icons like Madonna and how her art continues to echo through Venice’s labyrinthine streets. This unique experience offers a powerful mix of history, art, and identity, showcasing Venice as a city of openness and human spirit across the ages.