paradoxically the water that once afforded venice its power as a maritime empire now compromises its physical integrity periodic flooding threatens both the historic city and the mainland specifically the increased frequency and severity of flooding is perceived by many as a threat not only to public health but also to the liveability and economic viability of the historic centre floods have both shortterm implications reduced tourismrelated income increased costs of routine logistics and longterm implications notably damage to the citys building fabric and architectural heritage for the venice cityregion