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Grand Canal in Venice: Where the fluorescein came from was not disclosed
Photo: Luigi Costantini / dpa
The mystery of the green-discolored section of the Grand Canal in Venice has been solved: The discoloration was caused by fluorescein, a non-toxic substance used in tests in sewer networks, local authorities said on Monday. Fluorescin was detected in the analysis of samples, said the regional authority for environmental protection in Veneto. Toxic elements were not detected in the samples. Where the fluorescin came from was not disclosed.
Residents at the Rialto Bridge, which is popular with tourists, had pointed out on Sunday a "veil of bright green liquid" on the water. According to the local newspaper "La Nuova Venezia", the police investigated the question of whether climate activists were behind the discoloration. The Grand Canal had already been turned green a good five decades ago.
In 1968, during the Biennale art exhibition, the Argentine artist Garcia Uriburu poured bright green dye into the water to raise awareness of environmental protection.
SWE/AFP