Behind Locked Doors: Inside the Venetian Arsenal
Overview and Issue
[edit | edit source]- Article on an unexpected invitation to view the Arsenal Naval College in Venice.
Abstract
[edit | edit source]- The author and friend,Olive Millward, had a chance encounter at a Vaporetto in Venice which led to their being able to enter the world of Nicholas de Fleury. The Arsenal employed over 16,000 people and could turn out a fully fitted out Galley in one day. "The Arsenal was indispensable, not only for building the ships but in keeping them afloat and provisioned. The Venetian government spent almost 10% of its income on the Arsenal, which they clearly saw as a wise investment since this naval power resulted in the domination of Mediterranean commerce. Indeed, with the creation of the Great Galley and the mass production capacity of the Arsenal, "...the fleets of Venice were the basis for the greatest commercial power the European world had yet seen...".
Author
[edit | edit source]- Pam Keeling
Dunnett Book Citations
[edit | edit source]Historical People
[edit | edit source]- Doge Ordelafo Falieri
- Antonio Gastaldo
Fictional Characters
[edit | edit source]Locations
[edit | edit source]- St. Mark’s Basilica, Venice
Bibliography
[edit | edit source]- None
Literature
[edit | edit source]- Frederic Chapin Lane: Venice: A Maritime Republic.
Illustrations and Photos
[edit | edit source]- The gate to the city of Venice.
- Clockwise from top left: the gravestone of Antonio Gastaldo; two views from within the Arsenal; a water gate to the sea; a boat-building workshop. All photographs taken by Olive Millward
Historical Events
[edit | edit source]The Article outlines the changing history and use of the Arsenal from the 12th century through to today.
Other Topics
[edit | edit source]- None
Quotes from Dunnett
[edit | edit source]- None