THE HISTORY OF VENICE

The origins between water and shelters

Venice was born in the 5th century AD on islands in the Venetian lagoon, where the inhabitants of the mainland took refuge to escape the barbarian invasions (Huns, Lombards). Initially formed by small settlements of fishermen and traders, in a few centuries it became an autonomous center thanks to its strategic position between East and West.

The Republic of Venice and the Dogedom

In 697 the first doge was elected, and in the following centuries Venice transformed into a powerful Maritime Republic. The city built a network of trade with the Byzantine Empire, Islam and Europe, establishing a mercantile empire that extended to the eastern Mediterranean. The Venetian fleet was one of the most powerful in the world.

Venice in the Middle Ages and the Crusades

During the Middle Ages, Venice actively participated in the Crusades, especially the fourth (1204), from which it obtained Byzantine territories. During this period it was enriched with artistic and architectural treasures, including the Basilica of San Marco, the symbol of the city. The wealth derived from trade made it one of the most refined cities in Europe.

The height of Venetian power (14th–16th century)

Between the 14th and 16th centuries, Venice experienced its heyday. It controlled territories in Dalmatia, Crete, Cyprus and much of north-eastern Italy (the Terraferma). Art, architecture and trade flourished in the city. Figures such as Tintoretto, Titian, Giorgione and Palladio contributed to creating an unparalleled cultural heritage.

The Decline: Wars and New Routes

From the 16th century onwards, Venice began a slow decline. The discovery of new ocean routes reduced the importance of its trade. Furthermore, wars with the Ottoman Empire and other European states weakened its resources. However, the city remained a centre of art, literature and culture of the highest level.

The end of the Republic (1797)

In 1797, after over a thousand years of independence, the Republic of Venice was abolished by Napoleon Bonaparte with the Treaty of Campo Formio. Its territories were ceded to the Austrian Empire. It was the end of one of the longest-lived republics in history. Venice then passed between French and Austrian hands, until the Risorgimento.

Venice united with Italy

In 1866, Venice was annexed to the Kingdom of Italy after the Third War of Independence. A period of adaptation began, with land reclamation, industrial development and growing tourism. During the First World War, the front was nearby, and the city was bombed. In the twentieth century, Venice became famous for its heritage and for events such as the Biennale and the Film Festival.

Venice Today: City of Art and Fragility

Today, Venice is one of the most visited cities in the world. It has been a UNESCO heritage site since 1987, but it suffers from problems related to mass tourism, high water and environmental protection. Projects such as MOSE try to protect it from floods. Despite the difficulties, it continues to enchant with its uniqueness: canals, gondolas, palaces suspended over the water, and a timeless atmosphere.

Famous people born in Venice

Culture, art and literature

Titian Vecellio (1488/90–1576): one of the greatest painters of the Renaissance.
Jacopo Tintoretto (1518–1594): master of colour and movement.
Carlo Goldoni (1707–1793): father of modern Italian comedy.
Giacomo Casanova (1725–1798): adventurer, writer and seducer famous throughout Europe.

Music

Antonio Vivaldi (1678–1741): Baroque composer, author of the Four Seasons.
Benedetto Marcello (1686–1739): musician and writer.

SOME PHOTOS AND HISTORICAL POSTCARDS OF VENICE