One of the most informative and entertaining overviews of Venetian history is a four-part series from the BBC, hosted by Francesco da Mosto, whose Venetian lineage goes back more than a thousand years. The series takes you from the 4th century to the present day, and gives a vivid, compelling account of the most important events and personalities.
You can watch the entire 4 hours on YouTube - each episode is divided into 6 pieces, but you can find the next one in the sequence on the YouTube right-rail. Enjoy!
Part 1 - Blood
Part 2 - Beauty
Part 3 - Sex
Part 4 - Death
Finally, I'd highly recommend this interview with Francesco da Mosto that ran in the Guardian a couple of years ago (if only for the secrets of Venetian cooking he shares).
Thanks for the link. Really felt like we were guided through the complex history of Venice by a personal friend whose family has been there for centuries. As you said: vivid and compelling.
ReplyDelete2013apresto