Framing Venice: the role of media

Since the identity of a place finds expression, among other dimensions, through its depictions in the traditional and new media at national and international levels, the identity of Venice, in relation to its main urban challenges, can be analysed through its appearances in the headlines. The media plays a vital role in creating and popularising a brand image and identity : “The overwhelmed city” struggles to transmit its prestige. At the same time, only its challenges seem to emerge from its representation in the media, creating a negative image in the reader’s mind. The mainland area suffers an even worse fate with no redemption derived from a globally renowned urban identity. On the other hand, the neighbouring islands in the Lagoon experience an idyllic narration, contributing to the utopic perception of rural areas Somehow, we can identify a frontstage and a backstage with lights and shadows emerging here.