What natural feature is the city of Venice known for?

The city of Venice is famously known for its intricate system of canals. These canals serve as the primary means of transportation and are integral to the city's unique architecture and layout, setting it apart from other cities around the world. Venice was built on a series of 118 small islands, and as such, its streets are primarily waterways rather than traditional roads.

The canals allow for the movement of boats, gondolas, and water taxis, fostering a distinctive cultural atmosphere that is synonymous with Venice itself. The city's famous landmarks, including St. Mark's Basilica and the Rialto Bridge, are situated along these waterways, enhancing the picturesque quality of the environment.

In contrast, while rivers typically flow through and around various cities, Venice's layout is specifically characterized by its canals, which are artificially constructed and fundamentally define its identity. Mountains and forests do not accurately describe the geographic features of Venice, as the city is not situated in a mountainous region nor does it possess significant forested areas. Thus, the canals are the defining and celebrated natural feature of Venice.