Francesco’s Venice: The Dramatic History of the World’s Most Beautiful City by Francesco Da Mosto soon to be presented for sale on the top-quality BookLovers of Bath web site!
Published: London: BBC Books, 2004, Hardback in dust wrapper.
Contains: Black & white photographs; Colour photographs; Photographic end papers & blanks;
From the cover: Francescos Venice is the extraordinary story of the life of this intriguing city, told by a descendant of an old and distinguished Venetian family.
Francesco da Mostos ancestral history is inextricably intertwined with that of this amphibious city. Fiercely proud and protective of the rich cultural and architectural heritage of his birthplace, Francesco gives us a unique insight into the inner workings of one of the most beautiful cities in the world. He explores Venices remarkable history, from the fifth century when the first settlers retreated to the safety of the lagoon and began to create their homes on its tiny islands, through its glorious years as a successful maritime nation, adept at trade, exploration, diplomacy and protecting its independence, to the fragile city of the twenty-first century.
Venices history is a tale of warfare and conspiracies, of artistic excellence and ingenuity, of the battle of wills and of ideas, and of strength in the face of disaster, and Francesco vividly brings to life the places, events and people that have sculpted this living theatre through the ages. These include a colourful array of his own ancestors, such as the six da Mostos who were involved in the rise and fall of the ambitious and corrupt Doge Falier, and the young Alvise da Mosto, a courageous and determined explorer of the fifteenth century.
Beautifully illustrated with stunning images by John Parker of both the magnificent symbols of the city, including St Marks Basilica and the Doges Palace, and the more secluded corners, Francescos Venice celebrates the mesmerizing beauty and surprising strength of this unique city.
Very Good in Very Good Dust Wrapper. Price Clipped.
Black boards with Silver titling to the Spine. 216 pages. Index. 11¼” x 10″.
Of course, if you don’t like this one, may I fascinate you with a carefully selected medley featured in my Travel Italy catalogue?
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