Francesco's Venice: The Dramatic History of the World's Most Beautiful City

by Francesco Da Mosto, John Parker (Photographer)

Venice's rich history is explored by a resident historian, and descendent from a patrician Ventian family in this beautifully illustrated study.  Readers are guided from 5th century Venice to present day, uncovering historical facts, legends and catching glimpses into the lives of it's people, many of which are the authors own colorful ancestors.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Italy, Travel, Art History, Historical

216 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Ana · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's not the whole story, as other reviewers have remarked, but it is one hell of one, and to put it simply it is interesting to hear it from a native. The case for degrowth is surprisingly evident, or at least made immensely visible with regard to cultural desire, with Venice.

[Drasko · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very entertaining and "gossipy" history of Venice. Unfortunately author adds lot of myths to medieval history (Venetian galleys invading Belgrade - 500km inland from Adriatic, etc). Author also elegantly forgets negative influence of Venetian expansion and politics - to build the fleet Venetians have cut all the trees from mountain Velebit on eastern coast of Adriatic. Rains and wind caused erosion so bad that today there are no trace of dense oak forests just a bare rock for hundreds of kilometers. One of the first ecological catastrophes caused by man's greed. Today bora (north-eastern wind) races unimpeded down the slopes of Velebit (reaching speeds in excess of 200 km/h) and pushes waters of Adriatic in Venetian lagoon largely contributing to "aqua alta". One can say karma but I still hope that we will not loose "the pearl of Adriatic".

[Leonardo Etcheto · Rating 5 out of 5]

I must confess that prior to reading this book my knowledge of Venetian history was pathetical small. For me this book was a really good primer, with a great overview and plenty of interesting questions to pursue. Francesco is a very interesting guide being a member of an old venetian family himself, which helps give it all a personal touch. Really well done book, now I want to watch the BBC series and get some more books. Especially curious on getting a clearer idea of how they managed the trade and the different governing styles.

[Lysergius · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lavishly illustrated, and well written history of "La serenissima" by Franceso da Mosto, himself a native of the city and descendent of a long line of Venetians. His affection for the city comes across in the affection with which he writes of this anomalous urbanity.

My only complaint is about the frequent side panels that interrupt the flow of the text with digressions, it would have been preferable had they be added as appendices.

[Janette Hamilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent intro for our trip to Venice - dvd of the same was also good

[Jane Lowes · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly beautiful book. The author's love for his home city shines through every word. Exquisite pictures too.

[Fiona · Rating 4 out of 5]

A must read for Venice fans

[Ms Miaow · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very informative book.However for some reason I was hoping for more of a guide book to Venice something more along the lines of Michael Palins travel books.
A great read for someone interested in maritime warfare,history,politics.A nice gift for an older male relative perhaps.
I can't pretend this was an easy read for me,not a page turner,but like to challenge myself to read something other than novels and biographies.

A scholarly rendering of the history of Venice,beautiful images,and I enjoyed the book for the most part.I found the parts regarding architecture,culture,art and every day life most interesting.

I'm looking forward to reading more from this author,also I found his tv series very enjoyable.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Francesco Da Mosto interweaves his own family history with the history of Venice. It's a fascinating take on Venetian history from the dark ages to the present. The photographs are also stunning and include some from the Da Mosto family album.

This is a very worthwhile book and gives a refreshing view of Venice from a true insider who can trace his ancestry back a thousand years!

[Susanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

one of the most beautiful books about Venice! - Francesco daMosto, descendant of the Venetian "DaMosto"- Family tells the history of his hometown in a very attractive way, the photographs by John Parker are outstanding!

[Alethea · Rating 3 out of 5]

interesting atmospheric photos of Venice, one of the reasons to go there is to get lost in the maze of narrow streets and soak up some history.

[Brian · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pleasant travel book.

[Trine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Essential reading for anyone interested in Italy in general and the history of Venice in particular.

[LouLovesItaly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding. Loved the detailed description. Felt you were there as you were reading it

[Francesca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic given as a gift and very much prized

[Julianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful pictures and a great overview of the history of Venice.