Venice exists because of and in spite of the sea.

[Maybo]

What does “Venice exists because of and in spite of the sea” mean?

 

[SoothingDave]

"The city exists because of the sea" meaning that it is a port city that relies on seafaring for its economy.

"The city exists despite the sea" meaning that the city has always struggled with the reality of floods and keeping the city from sinking.

 

[Barque]

It exists because of the sea - It's known as a city that's built on a network of canals whose water comes from the sea and nearby river deltas. It's the sea that gives it its unique character.