Jones Bridge: A Legacy of Resilience and Revival in Manila
The newly restored Jones Bridge is easily recognizable by its beautifully designed black lamp posts—the same ones that were there when the bridge was first
The Venice Grand Canal, a premier lifestyle mall developed by Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, is located within the expansive 50-hectare McKinley Hill township in Taguig, Metro Manila. Its distinctive design has garnered widespread acclaim, culminating in the Best Retail Architectural Design award at the Philippine Property Awards in 2017. The mall is celebrated for its romantic ambiance, earning it the reputation as the “most romantic mall” in the Philippines.
Spanning a vast area, the Venice Grand Canal is a key attraction in the McKinley Hill development, blending innovative architecture with a unique thematic experience. Its location and design make it a prominent landmark in Metro Manila, drawing visitors from across the region.
The Venice Grand Canal proudly showcases Italian-inspired architecture that evokes the splendor of Venice’s Grand Canal. To ensure authenticity, Megaworld partnered with the Rome-based architectural firm Paolo Marioni Architetto. This collaboration was pivotal in capturing the true essence of Venetian design, from the intricate details to the overall ambiance.
The mall’s architecture features classical Venetian elements, such as ornate facades, arched walkways, and decorative bridges. This design approach creates a picturesque setting that transports visitors to the heart of Italy, making the mall a standout destination in Metro Manila.
One of the most compelling features of the Venice Grand Canal is its man-made Grand Canal, which offers an immersive Italian experience. Visitors can enjoy leisurely gondola rides, complete with singing gondoliers, as they glide along the 200-meter (660 feet) long and 15-meter (49 feet) wide waterway. This attraction provides a romantic and serene experience reminiscent of Venice itself.
The Grand Canal is further enhanced by a replica of the Rialto Bridge, where gondolas are docked. This addition not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also deepens the Venetian experience, allowing families and couples to enjoy a unique and memorable tour of the canal by water.
The Venice Grand Canal also features meticulously crafted replicas of iconic Venetian landmarks. Notable among these is St. Mark’s Campanile, which stands tall over the mall, mirroring its counterpart in Venice’s Piazza San Marco. Additionally, the Rialto Bridge and the Ponte de Amore Bridge contribute to the mall’s authentic Venetian atmosphere.
These landmarks provide visitors with opportunities to engage in themed activities, such as adding love locks to the Ponte de Amore Bridge. These attractions not only enhance the visual appeal but also offer interactive elements that allow guests to experience a touch of Venetian culture.
Dining at the Venice Grand Canal offers a diverse array of options that cater to both the local McKinley Hill community and mall patrons. Italian restaurants like Ponte Amore and Toni and Sergio provide authentic cuisine, while international choices such as Tim Hortons and Mitsuyado Sei-Men offer a variety of flavors.
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For shopping, the mall features a broad selection of retail outlets, including well-known brands, a supermarket, lifestyle stores, a bookstore, novelty shops, and wellness and fitness centers. It also houses the country’s first Fundador Café, offering a unique experience for coffee enthusiasts.
The Venice Grand Canal is also a hub of entertainment and pet-friendly amenities. The Venice Cineplex on the third level is equipped with Dolby Atmos technology and a Megaworld Lifestyle Malls Ultra Cinema, which features advanced twin seats for a premium viewing experience.
Pet lovers will appreciate the mall’s pet-friendly policies, supported by the Pet Pass system, which provides dedicated amenities and services for pets and their owners. Regular events, such as Venetian mimes, concerts, and the McKinley Hill Grand Christmas Parade, ensure that there are engaging activities for visitors of all ages. This combination of entertainment and pet-friendly features makes the mall a well-rounded destination for everyone.
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