The
Serenissima restricted prostitution in Venice to the area
Carampane di Rialto by official decree in 1412. The prostitutes were severely restricted in their movement and behaviour. The buildings of the area had become property of the Serenissima when the last of the rich Rampani family had died without an heir. The display of breasts also served to exclude
transvestite prostitutes. Taxes on prostitution imposed by the Serenissima in 1514 helped finance excavation at the
Arsenale. One writer estimated that there were some 11,654 prostitutes working in Venice at that time. Nearby was the
Traghetto Del Buso (Crossing Of The Hole), where prostitutes' clients crossed the
Grand Canal to enter the
red-light district.
Casanova was said to be a frequent visitor. This situation continued until the 18th century when, to encourage tourism, younger prostitutes were allowed to work throughout the city ==References==