Veneto Portrait [antikvár]

INTRODUCTIONand current situation should also be strongly emphasized. This is its international status, with which the name of Venice has always been synonymous. The Serenissima Republic was a great European power. The remarkable lagoon city of Venice on the Adriatic coastline is still a source etf/; admiration and fascmation. But the Veneto regiof has only quite recently attained international s an acquisition that belongs to the chapter of Italian history that arose from the ruins of World War II i and the tragedy the nations of Europe. The goal !J^that has been achieved is the result of modern political and institutional activity as well as the hard work, creativity and perception of the Veneto people, who took a leading role in that history of ij which they are justifiably proud. I ' ^ Such a reference cannot be omitted from a ^ publication intended for readers who do not visif the Veneto frequently or know the region well. For, in the future, a great deal will depend upon the way in which the Veneto's international position is interpreted and supported both by hinterland countries that are friends and neighbours, and b; Europe in its wider context.^These are the motives underlying "Veneto Portrait", which includes a good deal of urgently needed information. It does so in the firm belief that the invitation if offers will persuade the reader to make , more regular and thorough incursions ii^ the Veneto of the present and of the pastProfessor Carlo BerniniPresident Veneto Region,