Venice, Italy, “the city of canals” is a city of never-ending charm, history and influence. Venezia, Italia, as it is referred to by the Italians, is built on 117 small islands and has some 150 canals and 409 bridges. The city of Venice stretches across a marshy lagoon along the Adriatic Sea in northern Italy. The saltwater Lagoon stretches along the shoreline between the mouths of the Po and Piave Rivers. The area of Venice is about 458 sq km, with a population of about 65,000 that is only to decrease. 

The city of Venice was founded as a result of refugees into the marshes following the invasion of northern Italy in the year 568. Venice is favorably situated for sea trade between the East and West, which allowed for communities to grow and in the 9the century, the city of Venice was formed. By the 10 century, Venice had grown in power and now controlled the Adriatic Sea, and begun to build up it’s empire. The great power of Venice was established with defeating it rival, Genoa in the war of Chioggia in the year 1380. By the 15th century, Venice was known as the “queen of the seas,” reaching its height in power by engaging in rich tade. Venice was a very powerful city up until about 1450 when their trade with other parts of the world was greatly diminished. Since then Venice has fallen in wars, been the victim of damaging floods and is being rumored at “sinking.” Despite all of Venice’s hardships, the city still manages to draw countless numbers of tourists each year.

The center of interest in Venice is St. Mark's Square and the Piazzetta, which leads from the square to the sea. On the square are St. Mark's Church, the Gothic Doges' Palace, the Old and New Law Courts and the campanile, which was rebuilt after it collapsed in 1902. Also the Moors' Clock tower, the elegant and historic Old Library, St. Moses' Church, and the twin columns supporting the statues of St. Theodore stepping on a crocodile and of a winged lion of St. Mark. On an island facing the Piazzetta is the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore and on a nearby tip of land is the Church of Santa Maria della Salute.

Recognized as one of the world’s jewels, Venice definitely lives up to its name in terms of art and architecture. Venice was the most artistic city of the 18th century in Italy, and Venice was home to many world famous schools, painters and writers.  To find splendid artwork search no further than the Galleria dell'Accademia, with it’s impressive collection of Venetian painters. Nearby is the Peggy Guggenheim Gallery that has an impressive collection of early 20th century works.  You can also find fine painting at the Academy of Fine Arts that houses art from artists like Bellini, Carpaccio, Mantegna, Gorgione and Veronese. Venice also has timeless architecture that include its outstanding Gothic, Romanesque, and Byzantine buildings.

Venice is a truly unique city that has stood the test of time. Beautiful canals, amazing art and architecture, unique history and unparalleled culture all add to the wonder that is Venice.