The Rise of Venice

Venice began its historical adventure on the seas, regularly having to defend itself against attacks from Franks, Slavs, Hungarians and Normans. Trade flourished between Constantinople (now Istanbul), Egypt, the Holy Land and northern Europe and ensured the city’s prestige and riches. From 1500 to 1800, Venice was at the height of grandeur, though it was often attacked by other European states, jealous of its power and prosperity. Furthermore, there was an ongoing war against the Ottoman Empire, with whom the Venetians fought and traded at the same time.