The Serene Republic of Venice
The Serene Republic of Venice is a thalassocracy (or maritime) city state controlling a number of areas starting with the north-eastern region of Italy, and also controlling parts of Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, Greece, Albania and Cyprus. They are usually on unfriendly terms with the Papal States where they have a Patriarch of Venice as a religious figurehead, and antagonistic to the Lombards, Slavs, and such-like. They are neutral with the Franks, and as a major trading consortium, actively trade with elements of them in Austria & Croatia. It started in the year 687 AD and started it's fortunes in the salt trade. They also have started to become heavily involved in finances allowing more income through banking & lending money. It is run by a Doge, who is elected by the Great Council of Venice. They speak a form of Latin / early Italian called Florentine. Their wealthier merchants are an envy of others, along with the most powerful & wealthiest along with aristocrats making up the Great Council. One thing they have is a large scale shipbuilding ability, and massive naval assets for their size. They are on good terms with the Byzantine Empire, who view them as an independent state, but still linked to them politically and religiously.
Type
Geopolitical, Country
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