Believe it or not, the first ghetto in recorded history can be found in Venice. Founded in 1516 in an area of Canneregio district, this is where the Jewish population of Venice lived during the Venetian Republic. The very word 'ghetto' that we know today came from the Venetian word geto, which translates rather unflatteringly as 'slag' or 'waste', a reference to the large number of foundries in the area. Today, the area is the centre of Jewish life in the city, with five synagogues still standing, as well as a museum of Jewish art. Shabbat, the seventh day of the Jewish calendar, is celebrated every Saturday here - arrive early to experience the lively atmosphere. See the very infomative website of the Jewish Community in Venice, or visit the info point at Cannaregio 1222.