Discover the political and economic factors that led to Venice’s great wealth, artistic riches and remarkable longevity with our Viking Resident Historian, Charles Doherty. Traditionally known as La Serenissima, or “the most serene,” the Venetian Republic was a sovereign state and maritime republic that lasted over a millennium—from its founding in 697 to its fall at the hands of Napoleon in 1797. While no longer a sovereign state, Venice would continue to be a vibrant center for the arts and culture which continues to this day.