Venice

Venice (pop. 305,600), city in northeastern Italy, seaport capital of the Veneto region and Venezia province. It comprises 118 islands in the Lagoon of Venice at the head of the Adriatic Sea. Transport is mainly along the famous canals by motorboat and gondola. Venice is built on piles sunk deep into the mud and is linked by a causeway to the mainland. The first doge (duke) was elected in 697. Venice rose to control trade between Europe and the East. At its height (15th century), Venice ruled many areas along the coast of the eastern Mediterranean, the Aegean, and parts of the Black Sea. Its power weakened during the long struggle with the Ottoman Empire (1453–1718). It fell to Napoleon Bonapartein 1797 and became part of Italy in 1866. Venice is now a major tourist resort, boasting unique beauty and a magnificent cultural heritage.

See also: Italy.