A sprawling replica of Venice, built at a cost of 5 billion yuan (approximately $507 million), has become a subject of curiosity and disappointment due to its unexpectedly empty streets. Located in Dalian, a city in northeast China, the ambitious project aimed to capture the essence of the Italian city with its canals, gondolas, and Renaissance-style buildings. Construction began in 2011 and was completed four years later.
The replica boasts over 200 European-style buildings and a 2.5-mile canal network designed to emulate Venice's famous waterways. Chinese architects reportedly traveled to Venice for inspiration, drawing from the city's iconic architecture. Visitors are offered gondola rides with gondoliers dressed in traditional Venetian attire, mirroring the experience of the original city.
However, recent footage and visitor accounts suggest a stark contrast to the bustling atmosphere of Venice. Videos shared on social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube depict deserted avenues and seemingly unfinished buildings, leading to descriptions such as 'dead,' 'desolate,' and 'a ghost village.' One visitor in 2024 noted the presence of only a few people, attributing it partly to cold weather conditions.
During winter months, the canal system is reportedly drained, leaving a concrete channel visible. Interior views of some buildings have revealed unfinished construction work or empty spaces, with the observation that many structures exist as shells with little activity inside.
The development of the canal system was partly intended by local developers to mitigate traffic congestion and reduce air pollution, issues associated with increasing car ownership in the city. This endeavor is not China's first attempt at replicating famous Italian landmarks; the Venetian Macao, a luxury hotel and casino resort partially inspired by Venice, opened in 2007 and features an artificial Grand Canal.
The replica city opened to visitors in May 2015. Despite its elaborate design and scale, the perceived emptiness raises questions about its success as a tourist destination and urban development project.