Venice is easily one of my favorite cities in Europe. Its narrow winding walkways, numerous bridges and maze of canals make it a truly unique place to visit. I prefer to wander around Venice at night or early in the morning before the crowds of tourists fill the alleyways & piazzas. At these times you have the city to yourself...it is quiet, peaceful, a joy to explore or even get lost (which happens to me frequently due to the twisting passages & canals!) For this image, I awoke around 4:30 am and wandered through St. Marks square in the twilight and completely alone…which was a great experience in itself. As the sun began to rise, I walked down the popular Riva Degli Schiavoni promenade next to St. Mark’s square. This view, looking out over the Grand Canal to the iconic Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, has been photographed countless times…and is one of my favorite spots in the city.