The Italian Lakes to be linked to Venice -Billion dollar project

This summer, engineers are to begin work clearing the 500kms of ancient inland waterways formerly used for transporting sand and marble, and turning them into a route for tourist boats.

The first stage is to link Lago Maggiore, the largest of the Italian Lakes, to the Naviglio Grande Canal in Milan. 8km of canals last used in the 1900's are being cleared of obstacles and electronic locks are being installed.

This section was built in the 12th century by Benedictine & Cistercian monks and fell into disrepair when the coming of the railway proved a more cost-efficient way of transporting heavy goods.

The Naviglio Grande has already been restored and is now a popular residential and restaurant area with excellent cycleways along its banks.

The canal system will link to the River Po,winding past Pavia, Piacenza, Cremona and Ferrara to Venice and its massive lagoon.