Venice

Venice (Italian: Venezia) is a city in northeastern Italy and the capital of the Veneto region. It is situated on a group of 118 small islands that are separated by canals and linked by over 400 bridges. The islands are located in the shallow Venetian Lagoon, an enclosed bay that lies between the mouths of the Po and the Piave rivers.

History

Venice was founded in 421 AD by refugees fleeing from Germanic and Hun invasions. The city became a major maritime power during the Middle Ages, under the rule of the Doge of Venice. Venice was a republic, known as the Republic of Venice, which lasted until 1797.

Architecture

Venice is renowned for the beauty of its setting, its architecture, and its artworks. The city is entirely listed as a World Heritage Site, along with its lagoon. Venice's architecture is a mixture of styles over the centuries, combining influences from Byzantine, Islamic, and Gothic styles.

Economy

The economy of Venice is based on tourism, shipbuilding, services, trade, and industrial exports. Murano glass, lace, and Venetian masks are among the city's most famous exports.

Culture

Venice is famous for its music, particularly during the Baroque period, which is often called the "Venetian School". The city is also known for its world-famous carnival, its historic opera house La Fenice, and its traditional rowing boats, the gondolas.

See also

• History of Venice
• Venetian cuisine
• Venetian School
• Venetian language