Let me remind you, the loss of population ... is not only a problem in Venice but in all historical towns, not only Italy, cautions former Mayor Cacciari. The so-called exodus, which dated back very far in time, is deep-rooted with the lodging issue. For some, a solution to Venice’s troubles already seems to out of reach. It is too late, Gherardo Ortalli, the historian, says. The stones will remain. The people won’t.