When planning your trip to Italy, make sure to dedicate some time to delve into the history of the destination you are heading to.
By doing so, you will enhance your experience by immersing yourself in the atmosphere, culture, traditions, and local people. Join us today as we introduce you to Venice, the most unique, romantic, and renowned city in the world, through our historical tour.
According to legend, Venice was established by refugees from the province who escaped the Goths on March 25, 421. The settlement initially took root on the Rialto Islands and expanded as the Roman Empire declined. Fishing, salt extraction, and coastal activities served as the primary sources of income for the islanders. While the Huns, Lombards, and Ostrogoths wreaked havoc on cities in the Western Roman Empire, Venice managed to evade a similar fate due to its remote location and the residents' adeptness at constructing stilt houses and living on water. The incursions of aggressive barbarian tribes prompted affluent individuals from the mainland to relocate to the islands.
In the sixth century, Venice had the strongest naval force in the Adriatic Sea. This navy supported Emperor Justinian in the struggle against the Ostrogoths in the Eastern Roman Empire. In gratitude, Byzantium granted Venice protection and exclusive trading privileges. Thanks to its strategic position, Venice served as a pivotal hub for trade and transportation, enabling valuable commodities like silk, rice, coffee, and spices - considered more precious than gold at the time - to flow into Europe.
Byzantium's gift of the "golden bull" resulted in a 50% reduction in the duty imposed on Venetian vessels arriving in Constantinople. Venice prospered during the Crusades by lending money to crusaders and leasing out ships. Over the course of nearly two centuries, Venice engaged in trade-based conflicts with Genoa, with mixed results. The first banks in Venice were established in the 12th century.
After the 15th century, following significant geographical discoveries, Venice's prominence declined in favor of Portugal, Spain, Holland, and England. By the 18th century, Venice had relinquished much of its former influence, with the majority of its mainland territories falling under Austrian control.
In 1797, on May 1st, Napoleon announced the war against Venice. The Grand Council opted to meet all the demands.
Despite the negative impact of the French continental blockade on the city's economy, significant developments occurred over time. In 1869, the Suez Canal was opened, a new port was constructed in Venice, and the city emerged as a favored starting point for journeys to the East. Consequently, tourism flourished, annual international art exhibitions became a regular occurrence in Venice, and the prestigious Golden Lion International Film Festival has been taking place since 1932.
Stay tuned for our upcoming posts where we will delve into the history of the most renowned festival in the city, across Italy, and around the globe - the carnival's fascinating past.
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