The Venetian evokes the spirit of Venice with seasonal display

The Venetian Las Vegas and The Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino are celebrating the spirit of Venice with a new seasonal display that features one of the world's oldest Venetian gondolas.

The historic gondola, thought to be constructed around 1850, is considered by experts to be one of the best surviving examples of Venetian gondolas from that time period. The impressive specimen spans 36 feet and is nearly five feet wide.

"The gondola is the icon of Venice, and some argue the most recognizable boat in the world," said George Markantonis, president and chief operating officer of The Venetian, The Palazzo, and Sands Expo. "We have a piece of history on display — one of the oldest gondolas in the world — for our guests to discover while exploring our resort."

On display in the resorts' impressive waterfall atrium, guests can walk around the boat and read story of this well-preserved wonder and learn about the gondola, the boat that symbolizes Venetian culture. The vessel's elaborate wood carvings indicate that this gondola was likely used for weddings and special occasions. It has its original paint finish — black, the color mandated by Venetian law passed in 1562 and still current to this day. The gondola also includes a felze — or cabin — that was used to provide privacy as well as protect travelers from the weather. The windows of the felze would be closed with louvered shutters, or what is now known as Venetian blinds. The original 1800s furniture is still featured on the gondola, as well as 19th century etched glass windows and hardware.