Scientific Program

VENICE ITALY

For nearly 1400 years, the two to three miles of shallow water separating Venice from mainland Italy, had not only protected Venice from invaders but effectively isolated the Venetians from the Italian political life.

Untouched by the imperialist warfare, feudalism and territorial squabbles; they fixed their attention towards the East and the rich markets of the Levantine and Constantinople. And so began the great mercantile empire of the Venetian Republic.

A city built from fear, was soon to be heralded as the most dazzlingly beautiful city in the world. While the Florentines were regarded as great thinkers, the Venetians should be regarded as great doer's. For they alone conquered the malaria-ridden swamps to build a city from nothing.

The architectural and artistic treasures to be found throughout the city of Venice, reflect a continual process of enrichment through which the Venetians showed their great sense of nationalism at a time when the rest of Europe was in chaos. Modern day Venice is still an intriguing and mystifying city to visit. Its great history seems to resonant throughout the whole city. Traditions and festivals continue throughout the calendar year marking events from the rich history of Venice, the Queen of the Sea.