Italian Maritime Trade

During the medieval period, Italian maritime trade thrived, driven by key ports like Venice, Genoa, and Pisa. These cities became hubs for commerce, connecting Europe with the Middle East and Asia. Italian merchants traded goods such as spices, silk, and textiles, vital to European economies. They established trade routes across the Mediterranean and beyond, facilitating cultural exchanges and the flow of innovations. The rise of banking and insurance in Italy further supported this trade, allowing merchants to manage risks and invest in new ventures, ultimately laying the groundwork for the economic landscape of modern Europe.