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Learn the History of Venice Italy - Have a Memorable VacationMake sure you get to know the history of Venice Italy before you travel there. Consider your research a mini Venice history project. Venice is one of the world's most unique cities and many tourists go there without fully understanding how or why the city was created. Unlike any other city in Europe you can discover everything that Venice has to offer by foot or by boat. I prefer traveling by foot with the occasional trip on a water bus or gondola. Explore every nook and cranny and I guarantee you'll leave feeling fully satisfied with your European vacation. Now let's take a look at the history of Venice Italy.History of Venice ItalyVenice is the capital of Veneto, which is a region of Italy. The city itself is relatively small with a population of about 270,000. It is located in the Venetian lagoon, off the Adriatic sea, and is made up by a series of islands. The water around Venice and in the canals is saltwater. It is very much a maritime city and seafood plays an important role in the economy.The history of Venice Italy can be traced back to the 5th century when Romans fled the invading Goths and needed a place to hide. Venice began to be recognized in the 9th century when the relics of St Mark (San Marco) where stolen from Egypt. They were stored in the basilica and ever since the city has been an important destination for pilgrims. During the 9th century Venice became a city state which lasted for 300 years and it was the regions leading naval power. Venice is known for it's silver which can be traced back to 1178 when they acquired huge amounts of silver from Germany. The head of Venice was the Doge (Duke) and evidence of this rule can be seen throughout the city. During the 13th century Venice traded with the Byzantine Empire and the Muslim controlled areas of the Middle East. It was during this Period that Venetians tried to outdo each other by building the grand palaces that line the canals. Venice was known for it's religious freedom which can not be said for the rest of Italy at that time. During the renaissance Venice was a major sea power and the home of Marco Polo. It was a very important trading center and became a European powerhouse. By the end of the renaissance Venice began to lose it's influence. Explore Venice
Today Venice is a tourist city and has become world famous for it's canals. It is made up of 118 islands and 150 canals. The city is home to over 400 bridges and the only way to travel is by foot or by boat. One road connects Venice to the mainland along with the rail line. Trains arrive at Venice's Santa Lucia ferrovia. Water buses and taxis get you to where you want to go and make stops all along the Grand canal. If you fly in to Venice you'll arrive at the Marco Polo International airport and can get a bus to Venice itself.
I like to get an early start in Venice. I usually stay in Mestre, which is on the mainland and about a 15 minute train ride to Venice (cost 3 euros). I arrive at the Ferrovia and I have two choices; travel by foot or by water bus. I like starting my tour from San Marco piazza so most of the time I take the water bus (cost approx 8 euros). It takes about 30 minutes to get to San Marco Piazza. Along the way you get great views of the old palaces that line the canal. You'll also see that Venice is ,indeed, sinking!
When you get off the water bus you'll find a tourist information center. Stop off and get a map of the city.Ask the clerk to give you information on the history of Venice Italy. Make your way towards the piazza and get ready for the crowds. In the summer it's a sea of people. Don't forget to get a look at the "Bridge of Sighs" which faces the lagoon. After you take in San Marco Piazza and the basilica start to explore the city. It's on the small streets where you'll find all of the interesting little shops that make Venice so special.
I try to make it to the Rialto bridge for noon and then venture off and find a great restaurant, which is easy in this city. The rest of the day is left to explore before I take a rest around 4 pm for a glass of wine in one of the smaller squares. I sit back and watch the local kids play soccer in the square and really take in the culture. After my wine I head back to Mestre to clean up and rest a bit before heading back to Venice for a nice romantic meal at night. Most of the restaurants only open at 7 pm for dinner. Dinner is meant to be a slow process so don't rush it. Enjoy a few courses and some more wine and you'll feel like you've gone to heaven.By the end of the day you'll will definately know the history of Venice Italy even if you didn't do your research before. It is a city that is so rich in history we sometimes forget that it's the reason the city is so special. So get started on your Venice history project. I hope you enjoy your trip to Venice and your European Vacation!!
For more history information do a Google or Yahoo search on the history of Venice Italy. Or get information on the history of Venice Italy at the local tourist information center in Venice.
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