République de Venise

The République de Venise, or Republic of Venice, was a powerful maritime state that existed from the 8th century until 1797, centered on the city of Venice in Italy. Known for its unmatched sea power, extensive trading networks, and beautiful architecture, it was a major center of commerce, art, and culture during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Governed by a complex system of elected officials and a doge (leader), Venice was a wealthy and influential city-state that played a key role in European politics and trade for centuries before being conquered by Napoleon.