"Venezia, Serenissima, Queen of the Seas " a Venice Travel Page by seagoingJLW

History

After enjoying a profitable commerce with the Muslims, the Crusades proved a bonanza for the Venetians who charged extortionist fees to build and equip ships for the knights. During the Fourth Crusade, Doge Enrico Dondola directed the attack on Constantinople that culminated in the sacking and plundering of the city in 1204.

Venice fought with Genoa and battled the Plague, but saved herself by blockading the lagoon
European powers joined the Pope in an alliance against Venice, the League of Cambrai.

Napoleon took Venice easily in May 1797 causing the last doge to abdicate. The Austrians ruled Venice until Napoleon return in 1805 and again after Waterloo. The Venetians rose under Daniee Manin in 1848, ousted the Austrians and restored the Republic. Venice finally regained her freedom in 1866 and joined the new Kingdom of Italy.<BR>

Miscellaneous Information

Venice is a city to walk around in. There are a lot of bridges to cross, so be prepared. It really is worth it. See how we got around. Look at the Venice Travelogue.

An interesting movie, based on fact, that tells of historic Venice is Dangerous Beauty

Did you know that Venice invented the income tax, the glass mirror, casinos, high heeled shoes, biological warfare and painting on an easel?

Read Mary McCarthy's Venice Observed