the extraordinary history of Venice

 

Ancient Venice has origins that date back to the Roman and Late Antiquity periods, but its true birth as a city occurred during the period of the Barbarian invasions (5th-6th century AD). The inhabitants of the Roman cities of Venetia, such as Padua and Aquileia, fled to the islands of the lagoon to escape the plundering of the Visigoths, Huns and Lombards.

In the following centuries, Venice became an important commercial and maritime center, developing a unique political structure with the Doge as head of state. The Republic of Venice, officially born in the 9th century, became one of the most influential powers in the Mediterranean thanks to trade with the East and its naval fleet.

In the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, Venice was a leading cultural and artistic center, with artists such as Bellini, Titian and Tintoretto. The city prospered until its fall in 1797, when it was conquered by Napoleon and then ceded to the Austrian Empire.

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The islands of the Venetian Lagoon were at the heart of the birth of Venice and played a crucial role in its history. During the barbarian invasions (5th-6th century AD), many populations of the Roman cities on the mainland (such as Altino, Padua and Aquileia) sought refuge on these islands to escape looting.

Here are some of the most important islands in ancient Venice:

Torcello

One of the first islands to be inhabited, Torcello became an important political and economic center before Venice emerged as a dominant power. Here arose the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta (founded in 639), famous for its Byzantine mosaics. However, over time the island became depopulated due to the silting up of the lagoon and malaria.

Rialto

The island of Rialto (from the Latin Rivus Altus, “deep canal”) was the heart of the future Venice. Its strategic position made it ideal for the development of trade and for the construction of the market, which became the economic hub of the city. The famous Rialto Bridge was built here, a symbol of Venetian mercantile power.

Murano

Famous for its glass production since the Middle Ages, Murano was home to the glass furnaces that were moved from Venice in the 13th century to avoid fires in the city center. Murano glass art became famous throughout Europe.

Burano

Known for its colorful houses and lace production, Burano was inhabited mainly by fishermen. Legend has it that the houses were painted in bright colors to help fishermen recognize their homes in the fog of the lagoon.

San Michele and San Giorgio Maggiore

San Michele became Venice's cemetery island in the 19th century, but originally housed a monastery.

San Giorgio Maggiore was home to an important Benedictine abbey and is now famous for the church designed by Palladio.