Sunset over Venice, city of the sea. In the 13th century the Doge (mayor) of the city celebrated Venice&#x27;s close relationship with the Adriatic by &#x27;wedding&#x27; the sea, tossing a golden ring into the waters once a year. All Venice would float out to the Lido, the narrow opening that allowed its fleet of merchant vessels safe harbor. In &#x27;Marco Polo&#x27;s Youngest Daughter&#x27; (on amazon if you&#x27;re interested), Marco and his family watch as the doge&#x27;s great ship has a narrow escape from being rammed.