Behind the gondola and the gilt, is a real threat: as the levels of the Adriatic rise, Venice sinks. At the same time, the wooden piles hold up the city are rotting. Floods, which were fairly rare in the 18th century, are increasing. Modern additions, like motor boats and industrial development also take their toll. The most dire opinions say Venice is sinking at a rate of an inch every five years. Add to this to the pollution and Venice's future as one of the world's great wonders seems doomed. However, Venetians are at extreme pains to preserve and maintain their city's buildings. The slowing down of the rate at which Venice is sinking has given cause for some optimism.
