Venice in the 1890s was a fascinating blend of artistic vibrancy and social change. The city, renowned for its canals and stunning architecture, was undergoing a transformation influenced by the end of the Austro-Hungarian rule and the rise of Italian nationalism.

This period saw an influx of artists, writers, and musicians drawn to Venice’s unique charm. The art movement known as the “Venetian School” was prominent, with notable figures like Giovanni Boldini and Giovanni Battista Tiepolo gaining recognition. The city’s picturesque landscapes inspired many Impressionist painters, who sought to capture its light and reflections.

Tourism began to grow significantly, with the city becoming a popular destination for European aristocrats and intellectuals. The iconic Grand Hotel des Bains opened in 1900, further establishing Venice as a luxury retreat.

Socially, Venice faced challenges, including economic struggles and the effects of modernization. The traditional lifestyle was changing as new technologies and infrastructures were introduced. Despite these changes, the city’s rich history and culture remained a focal point, with festivals and events celebrating its heritage.

Overall, the 1890s were a time of dynamic contrasts in Venice, marked by artistic flourishing alongside the tensions of a rapidly modernizing world. Here below is a set of amazing Photochromes from The Library of Congress that shows life of Venice in the 1890s.

The Grand Canal, Venice, circa 1890s

Bridge and canal, Venice, circa 1890s

Chioggia – Statue of the Madonna, Venice, circa 1890s

Chioggia, fish market, Venice, circa 1890s

Chioggia, fish market, Venice, circa 1890s

Concert in St. Mark’s Place, Venice, circa 1890s

Da Mulla Palace, Venice, circa 1890s

Doges’ Palace and St. Mark’s by moonlight, Venice, circa 1890s

Feeding Pigeons in St. Mark’s Place, Venice, circa 1890s

Foscari and Razzonigo Palaces, Venice, circa 1890s

From the Campanile, Venice, circa 1890s

Grand Canal by moonlight, Venice, circa 1890s

Hotels on the Schiavoni, Venice, circa 1890s

In front of the Doges’ Palace, Venice, circa 1890s

Isola San Giorgio, Venice, circa 1890s

Military review in St. Mark’s Place, Venice, circa 1890s

On the Grand Canal, Venice, circa 1890s

Pigeons in St. Mark’s Place, Venice, circa 1890s

Procession over the Grand Canal, Venice, circa 1890s

Rezzonico Palace, Venice, circa 1890s

Rio della Botisella, Venice, circa 1890s

Rio di San Trovaso, Venice, circa 1890s

Riva degli Schiavoni, Venice, circa 1890s

Riva Schiavoni, seen from S. Zaccane, Venice, circa 1890s

San Geremia Church, Venice, circa 1890s

Santi Giovanni e Páolo church and statue of Bartolomeo Colleoni, Venice, circa 1890s

St. Mark’s Church and the clock, Venice, circa 1890s

The Doges’ Palace, Venice, circa 1890s

The Golden House, Venice, circa 1890s

The Grand Canal with the Rialto Bridge, Venice, circa 1890s

The Grand Canal, Santa Maria della Salute, Venice, circa 1890s

The Hohenzollern in Venice Harbor, Venice, circa 1890s

The Rialto Bridge, Venice, circa 1890s

Venice harbor and Palazzo dei Dogi, Venice, circa 1890s

Victor Emmanuel’s Monument, Venice, circa 1890s