When we think of Venice, we have visions of romance, beautiful views and great food. We also think of the huge number canals running through the city which is actually one of its biggest problems. Venice is situated in the shallow Venetian Lagoon, an enclosed bay that lies between the mouths of the Po and the Piave rivers. Recently, Venice has declared a state of emergency with some of the worst floodings in 50 years.

Photographer Natalia Elena Massi managed to get some first-hand experience of the situation in the Veneto region capital. Even though it wasn’t her first time in the city, the scenes still managed to take her by surprise.

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Flooding in the apartment courtyards of Venice. Officials say that it is the worst flooding that the city has seen in 50 years.

Services trying to help out the local residents and shop owners in the alleys.

Some residents tried using their own creative tools to scoop water out of their doorways.

Despite the flooding, many people managed to enjoy their drinks at the local bars and cafes.

Tourists managed to carry on their sightseeing, despite iconic buildings being completely flooded.

Soaking legs despite the protection of wellies, gangways have also been implemented around the city to provide safe passage to the populace.

Water rising outside the Louis Vuitton store in San Marco.

Interesting alternatives for wellies amongst some of the locals in the city.

According to sources, two people have died in the ‘apocalyptic’ flooding.

Image of the Piazza San Marco floodings.

Credit to Natalia Elena Massi for the images.

Let us know what you think of the floodings, were you affected?