Venice

No city in the world is more steeped in history and romanticism than Venice. Built on a network of 118 small islands connected by 400 bridges, the city has been a center of trade and influence for centuries. Today, it is one of the world's leading contemporary art capitals, home to a wealth of old and new treasures. The lagoon on which Venice was built has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Its strategic location made it a natural crossroads between the East and West, and over time it developed into an essential Byzantine naval base. Venice became a powerful maritime republic in the Middle Ages, controlling much of the trade between Europe and the East. As a result of its long and illustrious history, Venice is home to some of the world's most impressive artworks and architecture. Famous painters such as Canaletto and Titian left their mark on the city with their stunning landscapes and portraits, while romantic writers like Lord Byron were inspired by its ethereal beauty. In recent years, Venice has continued to evolve as an artistic hub, attracting some of the biggest names in contemporary art. It remains a unique and magical place, with surprises waiting to be discovered.