Days of rain have caused heavier-than-usual flooding in Venice, submerging 58 percent of the famed 'City of Water'.

Water rose to 140 centimetres above sea level last night.

According to local news agencies, many buildings were flooded by the unusually high waters.

While Venice -- renowned for the canals that weave through the city -- is no stranger to water, the floods are putting the delicate system under heavy stress.

The last time similar flood levels were recorded was Christmas 2010, when waters reached 144 centimetres above sea level.

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