History of Venice , Venice History , Italy

Founding refugees: AD 568
When the Lombards invade Italy, in 568, one of the first cities in their path is Aquileia - a Christian town of long-standing importance, traditionally held to have been founded by St Mark. Many of its inhabitants, alarmed at the prospects of life under the rule of Germanic tribesmen, opt for the uncertain status of refugees. Fleeing southwards, some seek safety on a low-lying offshore island - probably occupied at the time only by a fishing community. 


The island is Torcello. And the refugees, seen with the hindsight of history, are the founders of Venice. 


Less than twenty years later, in about 584, those parts of the east Italian coast still in Byzantine hands are grouped together as the exarchate of Ravenna - a defensive arrangement against the Lombards. The islanders of Torcello, who have perhaps already spread to neighbouring islands in the Venetian lagoon, are included in the exarchate. But with the northern mainland in Lombard hands, and with a considerable distance separating them from the centre of Byzantine government at Ravenna, their survival is largely in their own hands. They become increasingly independent.


In 726 the Venetians for the first time elect their own doge (the equivalent of 'duke', from the Latin dux meaning 'leader').


The history of Venice was not always fortunate. The 1300's brought trials and difficulties to the political structure as the Doge's power and efficacy as a ruler were eroded by an ever growing number of governing councils. To further shroud this century in darkness, the Black Death ravaged the population killing 600 Venetians a day at the peak of the epidemic. Half the population was lost in a single year - 1347.


In 1797 Napoleon invaded the city with little resistance ending the 1,100 year independence of Venice.


In 1815 Venice fell into Austrian hands. The rail link to the mainland was completed shortly after.


Venice escaped damage during WWI and WWII despite the heavy fighting nearby. 


Now, this city of more than 100 islets is part of Italy and is one of the most beautiful and romantic destinations in the world. Venice has something to offer everyone from the student of history to the casual tourist.


Explore the pages that follow for a small sampling of the offerings of this fascinating city. But remember, a visit to Venice is much like a tour of any other Italian city - to fully understand and appreciate the local peculiarities and culture, one must prepare by taking the time to study the history of the place.