The Festa della Sensa (often also called Sansa) is a historic Venetian celebration held in spring.
It commemorates the ancient Marriage of the Sea, the ritual through which Venice affirmed its bond with and dominion over the sea.
The central moment is the ring ceremony, when a ring is thrown into the water by the doge as a symbol of union.
Today, the festival combines historical reenactments, traditional boats, and a very evocative atmosphere.