Venice is, quite simply, the most beautiful city in the world. A thousand years of independence, of sailing and trading, many centuries of a flourishing commercial empire and a unique position, have resulted in the harmonious growth of a beautiful entity. La Serenissima (The Most Serene City) holds an appeal which goes far beyond the sum of its many palaces, churches and monuments. This talk will provide a visual experience of the city, exploring some of the monuments and works of art that best represent its culture and spirit, especially during the Renaissance period. Against this background the role of women in Venice will be discussed, although famed throughout Europe for most their life was a less than enviable silent subjugation to men and destiny. A handful of exceptional sixteenth century Venetian women - nuns, patricians, courtesans - managed to make their own way, academically, socially, and economically, leaving their mark on history.

Vittore Carpaccio, A Venetain Woman