Venice
Back in my childhood, Venice captivated me with its winding
canals and impressive architecture. I was looking forward to this trip most of
all, unfortunately weather had different plans. Working through torrential
rain, wind, and cold I explored the city and had a unique and great experience
working past the tourist traps covering the island.
According to legend, Venice was founded in 421 AD on April 25th, Saint Mark’s Day. Back then Venice was the name of the whole northern coastal region and found a unique spot in Italy, untouched by the pope and imperialistic warfare, feudalism, and territorial disputes. Due to its location, the Venetian empire grew by focusing their attention on the markets in the East such as Constantinople and Levantine. After fighting off pirates and Romans to maintain autonomy, Venice spread its power even further by participating in the great crusades and collecting the spoils. The Venetian Empire gradually declined in power from the end of the 14th century as other larger countries ousted them out of the markets they once had hold over. The empire ended with its unification with Italy in 1866. Today it remains a tourist capital, however it may be short lived. The city is sinking and there isn’t much that can be done, possibly falling as soon as this century which makes me all the more glad to be able to say – I’ve been to Venice.
"History of Venice." - Venice Italy History. N.p., 2006. Web. 28 May 2013.
According to legend, Venice was founded in 421 AD on April 25th, Saint Mark’s Day. Back then Venice was the name of the whole northern coastal region and found a unique spot in Italy, untouched by the pope and imperialistic warfare, feudalism, and territorial disputes. Due to its location, the Venetian empire grew by focusing their attention on the markets in the East such as Constantinople and Levantine. After fighting off pirates and Romans to maintain autonomy, Venice spread its power even further by participating in the great crusades and collecting the spoils. The Venetian Empire gradually declined in power from the end of the 14th century as other larger countries ousted them out of the markets they once had hold over. The empire ended with its unification with Italy in 1866. Today it remains a tourist capital, however it may be short lived. The city is sinking and there isn’t much that can be done, possibly falling as soon as this century which makes me all the more glad to be able to say – I’ve been to Venice.
"History of Venice." - Venice Italy History. N.p., 2006. Web. 28 May 2013.