First settled by migrant fishermen, Venice rose to become a powerhouse of Mediterranean commerce. Adding luster to its civic glory were the paintings of Titian, the music of Vivaldi, and the gilded domes of St. Mark’s Basilica. But behind the dazzling façade, scandal and violence flourished in the shadows. The nineteenth century brought doom and decay, then rebirth as one of the world’s top sightseeing destinations. This course allows you to explore – from the comfort of your home – the turbulent history, brilliant culture, and magical beauty of Venice.