La Serenissima: The Story of Venice

Wide-ranging, very readable, nicely illustrated. A great introduction to a fascinating subject.

This is, as one might expect from a past Chair of Venice in Peril, well researched and written. As the author states this is not a "History" but a thrilling account covering most of the important landmarks in the past 2000 or so years. (It has a sub title of "The story of Venice" and what a story! The background to events and participants is given in very accessible prose. This is not a dry academic tome and can be recommended to all interested in learning more about this wonderful city.A couple of my misconceptions were gently corrected, although I would have appreciated more in the way of references, to help identify the sources. [There are pages of notes, related to each chapter and a good Bibliography.]This is not a "coffee table" book, but there are many well reproduced illustrations. Altogether a fine edition to enhance ones understanding of "La Serenissima".

If you want a one volume reliable no frills guide to Venice then this possibly the only one you need. All the relevant facts on history and art etc are here and written in a non intellectual style but also not condescendingly dumbed down either. Ideal to take on a trip to that city but perhaps too heavy to walk about with but as hotel reading it’s perfect.

brilliant quality book.

the product arrived intact in box, but book was bent/creased. I need book so can’t send back and wait….

Jonathan Keates's magnificently illustrated history of the world's best-loved city goes behind the gossip, anecdotage and romance to set out the long, full, and extraordinary life of La Serenissima, known for her seductive powers of disorientation and enchantment, told by one of those who knows her best. (Keates recently served as a vigorous and inspiring chairman of Venice in Peril.) Almost every page brings a dazzling new image. The book is a triumph of achievement both by the author and his publisher: a beautiful gift for anybody ready for a little armchair travelling around Christmas time....or any time!

By far one of my best reads in 2023 and absolutely recommend. The author managed to pain a “literary painting” from the origins of the Venetian trade empire of the XIII century all the way to the environmental challenges of modern Venice. The reader will be smitten but the intemporal spirit of survival and preservation of its traditions and idiosyncrasy. My absolutely favourite chapter: Venice and the Napoleonic wars.