Venice: A Cultural History

Established on its many islands by Roman refugees, the heart of a maritime empire, a republic for a thousand years, Venice has always been distinct from the rest of Italy - and from anywhere else. It's unique light and hundreds of canals, palaces and churches - from mosaic-encrusted Byzantine to harmonious Palladian - have attracted visitors, painters and writers as diverse as Turner, Proust and Pound. Historically celebrated for its wealth and independence of mind, the city has also become...