- Duration
- 1 hour and 5 minutes
- Product Type
- Lecture
- Venues
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- Piazza San Marco
- Rialto Neighborhood
Lecture Details
Photos & Highlights
- Presented by the same world-class experts as our walking tours, Context Lectures highlight must-see attractions, reveal hidden landmarks, and explore the best things to do during your trip so you don’t miss a thing.
Lecture Description
Most people know that Venice is a stunning city, built on islands over lagoon, but few know how it came to be. In this lecture, we will uncover why Venice is one of the most fascinating cities in the world. Venice is not simply a work of art, but the birthplace of modern capitalism. While the rest of medieval Europe groaned under kings and landed magnates, the Venetians formed a free republic – one that would last for a thousand years. Offered by Dr. Thomas F. Madden, one of the world’s leading historians of Venice, this lecture will uncover the fascinating story of this remarkable place.
Meet Your Expert
Thomas is Professor of History and Director of the Center for Medieval and Renaissance Studies at Saint Louis University. As an author and historical consultant, he has appeared in The New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, CNN, and The History Channel. He is the author of "The Concise History of the Crusades," "The Fourth Crusade: The Conquest of Constantinople," and numerous other books and studies. He is a Fellow of the John Simon Guggenheim Foundation, the American Council of Learned Societies, and the Medieval Academy of America, and was named a National Endowment for the Humanities Public Scholar.
This engaging lecture introduces viewers to the history and sites of this famous place. It begins by explaining how a city wound up in the middle of the water, guiding viewers through events and challenges of the early city. Dr. Madden makes clear how an archipelago of marshy islands became a showplace of stone, glass, and waves. Then it is off to the famed Piazza San Marco for a brief orientation and a fascinating discussion of the original purpose as well as later modifications of the great square. Finally, viewers are guided through the modern history of Venice, challenged by a changing world and inundated by floods of water and tourists.
How do I access the lecture?
Once you complete your purchase, you will receive an email with a link to stream the lecture on the Context Travel website. You can also access your past purchases anytime under My Orders. Please ensure you are logged into your account to open the streaming page.
Is closed captioning (i.e. subtitles) available?
Yes! All of our lectures have the option to turn on closed captioning should you have difficulty hearing the expert.
How long does each event last?
Our recorded lectures typically run for 60 minutes.
How can I share this lecture with friends or family?
You are welcome to watch together with friends or family but each person viewing on their own device will need to purchase the lecture individually.
How long does my access to the lecture last?
Once you purchase a lecture, you are welcome to view it as many times as you like and your access does not expire.
What is your cancellation and refund policy?
Sales for recorded lectures are final upon purchase. Please contact us at digital@contexttravel.com if you have any questions or concerns about your purchase.
Can I purchase a gift card for a friend who is traveling?
Absolutely! Gift cards can be purchased here. Gift cards are good for 365 days from the date of purchase.
18 Reviews
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Reviews can only be left by Context customers after they have completed a tour. For more information about our reviews, please see our FAQ.
Clearly spoken interweaving of the many aspects of history that created Venice.
Debra
Jan. 19, 2023
Dr. Madden is a excellent and engaging presenter. The history he discusses is detailed but never dull.
Phyllis
Jan. 12, 2023
Excellent class. Amazing detail but not too dense.
Chris
Jan. 12, 2023