Terraferma: The Golden Age of Art in the Venetian Land Empire

The cities of the Veneto have rich histories, dating back even earlier than the Roman empire. This event focuses on a particularly important age in the region's history, namely the period starting from the very beginning of the 15th century when it was included in Veneto's land empire known as the Terraferma. The cities of the Veneto were shaped by this Venetian domination: the elites of the Veneto cities had greater access to trade, while the Venetian elites were given access to farmland which enabled them to diversify and increase their sources of income. Evidence of this wealth can be seen to this day by the region’s cityscapes, which we explore in great detail. We start with Verona, a veritable palimpsest of monuments dating from the Roman to the Renaissance periods, including the Porta Borsari and the famous amphitheatre used for the city’s opera festival. Continuing to Padova, we explore the Basilica of Saint Anthony, as well as Giotto’s masterpiece, the exquisite Cappella Scrovegni. Finally, we venture to Vicenza, in order to examine the work of one of the most influenced architects of any period, namely Andrea Palladio whose detailed studies of Roman architecture, coupled with his finely tuned aesthetic, shaped the city. Here we explore his unique Teatro Olimpico, the oldest existing Renaissance theatre, as well as the seminal Villa Capra alla Rotonda whose design was influenced by the Pantheon. From artistic wonders to architectural splendours, the Veneto offers some of the most stunning sites in Italy.