Vinice, Republick

1695. Thesaurus geographicus a new body of geography by Abel Swall and Tim. Child.

THe State of VENICE comprehends all those Territories which are possess'd by the Republick in Italy, and compose part of the Lower Lombardy, being bounded on the North by the County of Tyrol; on the West, by the Bishoprick of Trent, and Dutchy of Milan; on the South, by part of the same Dutchy, that of Mantua, and the Ecclesiastical State; and on the East by the Gulph of Venice, and the Province of Carniola. Its extent from East to West, that is, from Leceo, on the Frontires of Bergamasco, to Trieste, about 240 Miles; and from North to South 114 Miles. This State hath been governed ever since the Year of our Lord 697. by a supreme Magistrate, commonly call'd the Doge, or Duke, whose Office is perpetual, unless he be depos'd by the Senate; which Authority is very seldom excercis'd: Nevertheless, a President thereof hath not been wanting; as it happen'd to Francesco Foscari, to whom they denied the Satisfaction of dying invested with the Ducal Ornaments, although he had attain'd to the 84th. Year of his Age, and had render'd very signal Services to the Commonwealth. However, at present the Doge cannot abdicate his Office, although some have done it in former times. He is chosen by the Suffrages of the Noblemen assembled with very great precaution, and certain particular Circumstances. The Election is perform'd by Lot, without Fraud, and none dare presume to act otherwise. Immediately after, divers Medals are stamped with the Effigy of the new Duke. Then he is conducted from the Palace through the Streets, with general Applause, and joyful Acclamations, until his Arrival at the Court of St. Mark; where he enters into the Church, and takes the usual Oath, having first receiv'd the Ducal Crown and Vestments.

The Government of this Republick in the beginning was Democratical, under Consuls and Tribunes; but the Doges succeeded these last, of whom 34 or 36 were absolute Soveraigns. In the Year 1173. it return'd to a Democracy, until A. D. 1298. ever since which time an Aristocracy hath always prevail'd; that is to say, the whole Soveraignty is committed to a certain number of Families enrolled in the Golden Book, or Register of the Venetian Nobles. As for the Authority of the Doge, it is like to that with which the Prince of the Senate at Rome was heretofore invested, having only the Precedency above the other Magistrates. It is true indeed, the sumptuous Apparel with which he is clad, during the Celebration of publick Ceremonies, seems to make a kind of Majestick Show. In this State are establish'd Five principal Councils; the 1st. of these is termed the Grand Council, as comprehending the whole Body of the Noble Men: These elect almost all the Magistrates, and enact whatsoever Laws they judge to be necessary for the benefit of the Common-wealth. The 2d. nam'd Pregadi, determine all Matters relating to Peace or War, Alliances and Leagues, which we commonly call The Senate of Venice. The 3d. is the College, compos'd of 26 Lords that give Audience to Embassadors, and report their Demands to the Senate; which alone hath power to return Answers. The 4th. stiled the Council of Ten, decide all Criminal Matters, and is a most formidable Tribunal; for the 10 Noble Men, of whom it consists, are severe and inflexible Judges. This Court of Judicature is renewed Yearly, and 3 Inquisitors of State are chosen every Month from among these 10 Noblemen, every one of them executing the same Office in their turn. To which Triumvirate, so great Authority is assign'd, that they can take away the Life even of the Doge himself▪ as well as that of the meanest Mechanical Artificer of Venice, without giving any Account of their Proceedings to the Senate, provided that the Three Voices are unanimous; otherwise, all the 10 Judges must be concern'd to condemn him to Death. All Prelates and Ecclesiastical Persons, are for ever excluded from entring into the Councils, and bearing any Offices in the State; insomuch that it is impossible for the Court of Rome to form any correspondence capable of penetrating into the Secrets of the Senate. The 5th. is the Spiritual Council, in which presides the Patriarch of Venice, who is also Primate of Dalmatia, and Metropolitan of the Archbishops of Candia and Corfu, and of the Bishops of Chiozza and Torcello: but the Church of St. Mark doth not depend on his Jurisdiction, because it is, as it were, the See of a particular Bishop, called Pomocrise; who officiates with a Mitre, Cross and Ring, gives the Benediction to the People, and confers the Tonsure, together with the Four inferiour Orders. The Patriarch is nominated by the Senate, and the Primate of St. Mark by the Doge: They are both noble Venetians, as well as the Prelates of Candia, Corfu, Treviso, Padua, Vicenza, Verona, Brescia and Bergomo. As for the other Bishopricks, the Pope bestows them on Citizens, Country-Gentlemen and Monks. The Senate had, heretofore, a Right to the Nomination of all the Bishopricks and Abbeys of their Dominions, both by Sea and Land; but they renounc'd it in the Treaty of Peace, concluded An. Dom. 1510. with Poge Julius II. to disengage him from the League of Cambray: The prudent Senators judging that it was not the Interest of the Republick to interpose in the Collation of Bishopricks, in favour of the Noblemen, who might, by this Means; be induc'd to neglect the Service of the State.

The Dominions of the Venetians are of two sorts, viz. one in Lombardy called the State of the Continent; and the other on the Sea, or adjacent Territories, which is termed the Maritim State: The first of these comprehends many distinct Countries and Towns, namely those of La Marca Trevisane, Padouano, Vicentino, Veronese, Bergamasco, Cremonese, Bresciane, Polesino, or the County of Rovigo and Friuli. The Maritim State contains the Province of Venice or Il Dogado, part of Istria, Dalmatia, and Albania; the Islands of Corfu, Zante, Cephalonia, and Lerigo; some Places in Candia, and almost the whole Peninsule of the Morea, together with the Adriatick-Sea, or Gulph of Venice, which Andrea Morosini, a noble Venetian, calls Reipublicae Dominium. The annual Ceremony of espousing the Sea in the Presence of the Ambassdors of crowned Heads, is perform'd on Ascension-Day in the Port of Lido; where the Doge goes on board the Bucentaur, which is a very stately Vessel, or Barge, and casts a Ring into the Sea, after having pronounc'd these Words, Desponsamus te, Mare, in signum veri & perpetui Dominii; i. e. We Wed thee, O Sea, in token of a true and Perpetual Dominion; which is done in Memory of a notable Victory that the Venetians had gained over the Sclavonians, Normans, Pisans, and Genoeses, rather than as an acknowledgement of the fabulous Donation made to them by Pope Alexander III. When the Solemnity is finish'd, the Ring, ty'd to the end of a String, is drawn up again. Which oblig'd Hieronimo Donato, Ambassador at Rome, to return this Answer to Pope Julius II. who requir'd him, by way of Railery, to shew what Authentick Records the Republick had to prove their Right of Soveraignty over the Gulph. If your Holiness, said he, vouchsafe to search into the Original Draught of the Donation made by the Emperor Constantine to Pope Sylvester, you will find the Concession of the Adriatick Sea to the Venetians, indorsed on the back side of it. The General, or Governour of the Gulph, is the most ancient Marine Officer of the State: maintaining on that account, one of the principal Posts or Stations in the Sea-fights; together with this Privilege, That when the Generalissimo, or High-Admiral of the Fleet happens to dye, or to fall sick, he supplies his Place until the Senate hath nominated another. Moreover, his Office is perpetual; whereas that of the Generalissimo continues only during the Wars. The ordinary Revenues of this Republick amount to 5320000 Venetian Ducats Yearly, beside what they have from the Conquests.

The Republick of VENICE divided into Three States.

• 1. The State of the Continent, in Nine principal Parts or Countries,
  • Of BERGAMOSCO,
    • Bergomo, Bish.
  • Of Cremasco,
    • Crema, Bish.
  • Of Bresciano,
    • Brescia, Bish.
  • Of Polesino,
    • Rovigo, Bish.
  • Of Veronese,
    • Verona, Bish.
  • Of Padouano,
    • Padua, Bish.
  • Of Vicentino,
    • Vicenza, Bish.
  • Of Trevisano,
    • Treviso, Bish.
  • Of Friuli,
    • Aquileia, a Patriar. ruin'd.
    • Ʋdina, Patr.
• 2. The Maritime State, in five principal Parts,
  • The Province of VENICE, or Il Dogada,
    • Venice, Patr. Cap.
  • Part of Istria,
    • Capo d' Istria, B.
  • Part of Dalmatia,
    • Zara, Archb.
  • Divers Islands,
    • Corfu, Bish.
  • Part of Candia,
    • ...Spina Longa.
• 3. The Conquer'd Territories,
  • Almost the whole Peninsule of the Morea,
    • ...Patras.
  • The Country of Athens,
    • ...Athens.

The Country of BERGAMASCO, Bergomensis Ager, lies between the Valteline on the North, the Dutchy of Milan on the West, the Territories of Cremasco on the South, and those of Bressano on the East; comprehending from North to South, the space of about 46 Miles, and 32 from East to West. This Province or Territory, as well as that of Milanois, is water'd with many Rivulets that descend from the Alps, and which the Inhabitants divide into small Brooks throughout the whole Country, as occasion serves; insomuch, that by this means, the Inconveniences of two great Droughts are prevented, and the Soil is render'd wonderfully fruitful.

The Chief Towns are these, Viz.

• Bergamo, Bish Cap.
• ...Martinengo.
• ...Romano.
• ...Clusono.
• ...Calepio.

Bergamo, Bergomon, the Metropolis of Bergomasco, in the Latit. of 45 Deg. and the Longit. of 31 Deg. 30 Min. is seated on the side of a Mountain, the foot whereof is cover'd with very large Suburbs, between the River of Serio to the East, and that of Brembo, to the West, at the distance of 30 Miles North-Eeast of Milan, 34 almost West of Brescia, and 44 North-West of Cremona. It was first founded by the Orobii, an ancient People, together with Como and La Pieve d Incino, and is at present the Seat of a Prelate Suffragan to the Archbishop of Milan. It is well built, and very strong, as well by reason of its advantageous Situation, as on the account of its Walls, and the Castle call'd Capella, with other Bulwarks. The Streets are narrow, but the Houses fair. Upon the top of a Hill above the City stands the Castle, which, tho' it be but a small Place, is strongly situated, and commands the Town. In the Cathedral is shewn the Tomb of the Valiant Bartholomeo Cogtione, who was General of the Venetian Forces against the Milanese, and the first that brought a Train of Artillery into the Field. In the Quire of the same Church, the Stalls and Benches of In-laid Work are more-especially remarkable; which were made after the same manner, and by the same Hand as those of the Dominican's Church at Bononia. The Dialect or Jargon of the Inhabitants of Bergamo, is esteem'd so ridiculous, that all the Buffoons of Italy affect to imitate their Speech. But there is another thing among those People no less disagreable: For half of them have their Throats bloated up with an ill-favour'd Swelling that very much disfigures their Faces; but it is so natural to them, that they make it a doubtful Question, which ought to be reputed the greatest Defect, To have one of these Swellings, or to be free from it? The City of Bergamo hath been possess d by different Lords, and at length became subject to Philip Duke of Milan, about the Year 1419. After whose Death, the Inhabitants submitted to the Government of the Venetians. But Lewis XII. King of France, having defeated the Forces of the Republick, A. D. 1509, in the memorable Battle of Aignadel, took Bergamo: nevertheless, in 1516, the Place was restor'd to the Venetians, who have ever since retain'd it in their Possessions.

The Country of Cremasco, Cremasco Ager, is of a small extent, 16 Miles long, and 10 broad, lying to the South of Bergomasco, including within its Bounds only one considerable City, viz. that of Crema, which standing on the Banks of the River Serio, the Waters thereof fall into the Channel of the Addua, at their entrance into the Territories of Milan. An Episcopal See was erected therein by Pope Gregory IX. A.D. 1579, and render'd subject to the Metropolitan of Bononia. The Palace, Castle and Fortifications render it a Place of considerable strength; but it hath, at several times, remain'd under the Dominion of the Emperors, Viscounts of Cremona and Placentia, and Dukes of Milan, until at last it fell into the Hands of the Venetians. It is distant 23 Miles North of Piacenza, 18 North-west of Cremona, 25 South-west of Brescia, and 30 East of Milan; and is famous for fine Thread made here by the Nuns, and little Brushes made of the Roots of a kind of Grass call'd Capriole.

The Country of Bresciano, Brixianus Ager, hath the Bishoprick of Trent, and the Valteline, for its Northern Bounds; the Territories of Bergamasco on the West; those of Milan on the South; and those of Verona, and part of the Principality of Trent, on the East; being extended from South to North for the space of about 70 Miles, and 35 from West to East.

The most remarkable Towns are these:

• BRESCIA, Bish. Cap.
• ...Asala.
• ...Montchiaro.
• ...Salo.
• ...Isseo.
• ...Roca d' Anso.
• ...Ponte Vigo.
• ...Orzi Nuovi.
• ...Orchi Vecchi.

BRESCIA, Brixia, in the Latit. of 44 deg. 50 min. and the Longit. of 31 deg. 30 min. is situated in a Plain on the River Gotro, near that of the Mela, and enjoys the Title of an Episcopal See under the Metropolitan of Milan, being distant 34 Miles almost East of Bergamo, 28 North of Cremona, 45 almost North of Parma, 35 North-west of Mantua, and 110 East of Venice. It is a fair and populous City, with large Streets, through which run divers Brooks of clear Water, and is famous for Guns and Iron Works, the Fire-Arms made there being esteem'd the best in Italy. It is also fortify'd with a very strong Citadel founded on an adjacent Hill, which is as it were, the first Step of the Alps; as also, with certain Ramparts, though not very considerable, and an Arsenal. The Hall of Justice is a large and beautiful Edifice, built with a sort of Pietra Dura, or hard Stone resembling Marble, on the front whereof is this Inscription, Fidelis Brixia Fidei & Justiciae consecravit. Over-against this Palace stands a Portico 500 Paces long, and almost entirely fill'd with Armourers Shops. Lastly, the Neigbourhood of the Alps supplies the Town with a great Number of good Springs, and a Rivulet affording no small Advantage thereto. This City suffer'd much Damage through the Factions of the Guelphs and Gibelines. The Dukes of Milan made themselves Masters thereof, until it was subdued by the Venetians, and afterwards taken by the French King, Lewis XII. A. D. 1509. But Francis. I. resign'd it to the Republick of Venice, and it, as yet, remains in their Possession.

The Country of Veronese, Veronensis, Ager, which is very fruitful, more-especially of excellent Olives, lies between the Bishoprick of Trent on the North, Bresciano on the West; the Dutchy of Mantua on the South; and the Provinces of Vicentino and Padouano on the East. It is extended from South to North for the space of about 56 Miles, and of 35 Miles from West to East, and contains the ensuing Towns, &c. Viz.

• VERONA, Bish. Cap.
• ...Garda.
• ...Paschiera.
• ...Sirmione.
• ...Legnano.
• St. Bonifacio.
• ...Chiuse.
• ...Maliesano.

VERONA, Verona, in the Latit. of 45 deg. 50 min. and the Longit. of 33 deg. 20 min. is seated on the Banks of the River Adige, which divides the whole Town into two Parts, joyn'd together by 4 stately Stone-Bridges, at the distance of 24 Miles almost North of Mantua, 35 South of Trent, 40 East of Brescia, and 68 West of Venice. It is a fair City, 7 Miles in compass, excluding the Suburbs, which are very large too, and thought to contain 70000 Souls. It is strong by Situation, and extraordinary well fortify'd with Walls, Bastions, Towers, Bulwarks, and deep Ditches, and strengthned with 3 Castles, so that it is look'd upon as almost impregnable. But the Fortifications have been of late much neglected, and for the most part are not very regular. The Castle of St. Felix stands behind that of St. Peter, and both together command the Town, on one side whereof are large waste Grounds, the Grass growing in the very Streets, which are there unpav'd, and almost all of them are narrow and dirty. Indeed, there are some fair Buildings, but the Houses are generally low, and of unequal height, most of them having wooden Balconies, over-loaded so extremely with little Gardens in Boxes, and Flower-Pots, that it is not safe to pass under them. In a word, when one walks in this •ity, it is not very delectable; nevertheless, it is extraordinary large, its Situation being also wonderfully pleasant, and the Air round about it very healthful.

The Episcopal See of Verona is subject to the Patriarchate of Aquileia; and the Cathedral bears the Name of St. Zeno, one of its Prelates. It is a small dark Church, adorn'd with some Tombs, particularly that of Pope Lucius III. on which is engrav'd only this Epitaph, Ossa Lucii III. Româ pulsus invidiâ. But the Amphitheatre may well surprize those that have not been accustom'd to behold Works of the like nature. Indeed; the outward Wall of it is entirely ruin'd; but Care has been taken to repair the Benches or Seats, as they have fallen to decay, and they are 44 in number; the uppermost is 530 Paces in compass, and the lowermost 250; every Step is a Foot and an half high, and near 26 Inches wide: which distances could not be less, that those Spectators who sat behind might not offend the others with their Feet. At each end of the Amphitheatre, between the Seats, is a Gate 25 Foot high, for an entrance into it out of the Street; and over each Gate, a kind of Plat-form, 20 Foot long, and 10 broad, enclos'd before, and on the sides, with rows of Marble Ballisters. It is commonly reported, That this Work was founded by Augustus; but others attribute it to the Emperour Maximilian. There is also to be seen here a Triumphant Arch, and lome other ruins of ancient Monuments. Among other Curiosities, the Cabinet of Count Mascardo deserves well to be view'd by Travellers. It consists of a Gallery, and 6 Chambers, all fill'd with most wonderful Rareties, both of Art and Nature. The City of Verona hath been possess'd by the Venetians ever since the Year 1403. from whom it was taken by the Emperour Maximilian, A. D. 1509. but surrender'd to them again in 1516.

Chiusa is a very considerable Fort, the Situation thereof being like to another of that Name on the Rhone, between Geneva and Lions. It stands on the foot of a high Rock, and the Passage leading to it is cut out of the steep surface of the same Rock; on the other side is a Precipice, at the bottom whereof, the River Adige runs with a gentle stream.

The small Territory of Polesino, Rhodigena Penincula, is bounded on the North by the River Adige, and the Territories of Padouano; on the South, by the Dutchy of Ferrara; and on the East, by the Gulf of Venice; being extended only for the space of 60 Miles in length from South-West to North-East, and about 18 in breadth.

The chief Towns are these: Viz.

• Rovigo, Bish. Cap.
• ...Adria.
• ...Labadia.
• ...Lendavara.

ROVIGO, Rhodigium, is water'd with the River Adige, that encompasseth almost all its Territories, and is distant 22 Miles South of Padua, 24 almost North of Ferrara, and 33 South-West of Venice. This small Town hath been, for some time, the usual Place of Residence of the Bishop of Adria, and was heretofore subject to the Dukes of Ferrara; but at present is united to the Dominions of the State of Venice.

Adria, Hadria or Atria, is situated on the Sea-Coasts, and the side of the little River Tartaro, being distant 50 Miles from Ravenna to the North, 30 from Ferrara to the North-East, and 25 from Venice to the South; but scarcely 5 from the Confines of the Ecclesiastical State, and the Dutchy of Ferrara. It is a place of great Antiquity, as having impos'd its Name on the Adriatick-Sea, or Gulf of Venice, and is at present dignified with the Title of an Episcopal See, under the Metropolitan of Ravenna. But in regard that the Town is now half ruin'd, and very much impair'd, through the violence of the Waves continually beating on it, the Bishop hath thought fit to remove his Palace from thence, and reside, for the most part, at Rovigo.

The Country of Padovano, Patavinus Ager, lies between that of Trevisano on the North, that of Vicentino on the West, that of Polesino on the South, and the Gulf of Venice on the East. Its utmost extent from South to North, consists of about 36 Miles; and of 46 from West to East.

The Towns, Villages, &c. of chiefest Note, being these: Viz.

• Padua, Bish. Cap.
• ...Este.
• Campo S. Pietro.
• ...Pieve di Sacco.
• ...Mirano.
• ...Orago.
• ...Citadella.
• ...Montagnana.
• ...Castelbanco.
• ...Monseace.

PADƲA, Patavium; in Italian, Padoua, in the Lat. of 45 deg. 10 min. and the Longit. of 34 deg. 20 min. is advantageously situated in a very fertile Country, near the Streams of the Rivers Brenta and Bachiglione, which fills its Trenches with Water, and render it the Bulwark of Venice, on the side of Lombardy; being distant 17 Miles almost East of Vicenza; 20 South-West of Trevigio, 22 North of Rovigo, 24 West of Venice, and 46 East of Verona. It is commonly reported, That this City is more ancient than Rome and Venice, and that its foundation was laid by Antenor, whose Tomb is erected in the Street of S. Lawrence. However, Padua is at present adorn'd with a Bishop's See, under the Patriarchate of Aquileia, and a famous University. It is a very large City, being 8 Miles in compass; but has much wast Grounds, and is in a decaying Condition, Houses being very cheap. It contains 8550 Houses, and about 38000 Souls. Which Mr. Ray thinks exceeds the just Sum, by at least 10000. It is usually divided into the old and new Town; the former, as yet, retaining its ancient Castles, Towns, Walls, and Moats. The Palace, wherein the Courts of Justice are kept, is a noble Pile of Building, and its Out-works are extreamly magnificent; within the Apartments thereof, is contain'd the most curious Library of Padua. Here is also to be seen a spacious Hall, called Il Palagio di Ragione, which extends its self in length 256 Feet, and in breadth 86, according to the Report of Schottus, and Angelo Portenari, and is not supported by any Pillars: It is open on 4 sides, and on every one of its Gates is plac'd the Statue of some Illustrious Personage of the State. The old Town is likewise beautified with the Cathedral Church, and the Colleges of the University. Moreover, the Houses are flanked with Portico's, so that one may securely walk under them, without being exposed to the injury of the Weather, although the Streets are thereby made narrow and dark. In the new Town stand the Church and Abbey of St. Justin, and that of St. Anthony of Lisbon, commonly call'd of Padua, because he dy'd, and was bury'd there. This last Church is very large, and fill'd with great variety of admirable Sculptures and Paintings, besides a great number of magnificent Tombs; and among others, that of Alexander Contarini, Admiral of the Republick of Venice, and Procurator of St. Mark; as also that of Count Horatio Sicco, who was slain during the last Siege of Vienna. Neither is there any where to be seen a more curious Piece of Painting in Fresco, than that of the Chapel of St. Felix, drawn by the famous Giotto, an excellent Artist in that sort of Work. But that which is most Remarkable in this Church, is the Chapel of the above-mention'd St. Anthony, the great Protector of Padua, styled, by way of Excellency, Il Santo, or the Saint; whose Body lies interr'd under the high Altar. The whole Chapel is lin'd with white Marble, wrought in Basso Relievo; where are represented the principal Miracles of the said St. Anthony, not to mention 36 large Silver Lamps, that burn Night and Day round the Altar. There are also divers Monasteries, and other well-built publick Edifices. The University (as 'tis believ'd) was founded by the Emperour Charlemaign, and re-establish'd in the Years 1179, and 1222, since which time, its Reputation hath been so far encreas'd, that it is every where highly esteem'd, and frequented by the most learned Professors throughout Europe. Here are also establish'd two Academies of ingenious Persons, Intituled, Gli recouverati, and Gli inflammati. In fine, the City of Padua, which heretofore gave birth to that renowned Roman Historian, Titus Livius, hath, in like manner, lately brought forth a great number of excellent Personages, particularly Paulus and Albertus, Paduenses, Petrus Appo, Speron, Speroni, Zabarella, &c. This City is very dangerous to such as walk in the Night-time, by reason of the Insolence of the Scholars, and others, who go about all Night, Arm'd with Pistols and Carbines. It fell into the Possession of the Venetians, A. D. 1406. and in 1519, all the Suburbs were demolish'd, in which were comprehended 10 Monasteries, 6 Churches, 7 Hospitals, and about 3000 Houses. The Amphitheatre of Padua was larger than that of Verona; but there remain only the miserable Ruins of its ancient Grandeur.

The Country of Vicentino, Vicentinus Ager, is bounded on the North by that of Trevisano, on the West by the Arch-bishoprick of Trent, on the South by the Territories of Verona, and part of those of Padouano, and on the East by the same Province of Padouano. Its extent comprehends about 44 Miles from South to North, and 32 from West to East. It is a very pleasant Country, and usually stiled, The Garden of Venice, more especially the Fields round about the City of Vicentia. But the Inhabitants are accused of being too revengeful, and frequently branded with the odious Name of The Assassines of Vicentia.

The most considerable Towns are these: Viz.

• Vicenza, Bish. and Cap.
• Morostica, or Marostico.
• ...Lonigo.
• ...Orgnano.

VICENTIA, or Vicenza, Vicentia, or Vicetia, is very advantageously situated near the confluence of 2 Rivers, viz. the Bachiglione, and Borone, in a verdant Plain, at the distance of 18 Miles almost West of Padua, 32 almost East of Verona, and 44 West of Venice: It is about 4 Miles in circuit, but considerably populous, containing 30 or 40000 Inhabitants; and it is encompass'd with a Brick-Wall, but not very strong. It is full of Nobility and Gentry, being said to have 200 Families worth 15000 Crowns per Annum each, and better. The Inhabitants drive a great Trade in breeding and feeding of Silk-worms; and in winding, twisting, and dying of Silk. Three or four small Rivers run by the Town, but none of them are Navigable. There are some good Paintings in the Cathedral, dedicated to St. Vincent; and a much-commended Work of in-laid Stones. The Church, that bears the Name of Coronata, is well Pav'd and Wainscotted; and that of the Nuns of St. Catharine is admir'd for its Three beautiful Altars. The Town-house is no extraordinary fair building, and yet cry'd up by the Inhabitants, (according to the Italian custom) for a rare Piece of Architecture, There are some Ruins of an ancient Amphitheatre at Vicenza, but the greater part of them (as they say) lie hid under the New-Buildings. But the Theatre in the Academy, call'd, of the Olympicks, was built by the famous Architect, Andrea Palladio: however, the Fabrick is none of the largest, and is us'd onely upon certain Occasions that seldom happen. The Triumphal Arch without the Gates, at the entrance of the Plain nam'd Campus Martius, is an imitation of the ancient manner perform'd by the same Palladio; besides a spacious Court-Yard for Tournaments, adorn'd with Portico's.

The City of Vicenza has the Title of a Bishop's See, under the Metropolitan of Aquileia; and after divers Revolutions, became subject to the Jurisdiction of the Venetians: But it was taken from them by the Emperour Maximilian I. Anno Dom. 1509. and at length restor'd, by virtue of a Treaty of Peace concluded in 1516.

The Country of Trevisano, or la Marca Trevigiana, Marchia Tarvisma, lies between that of Friuli on the North; the Bishoprick of Trent, and the Province of Vicentino on the West; that of Padoua on the South; and the Dogado, and part of Friuli on the East. Its utmost Extent, from North to South, includes about 68 Miles; and 48 from East to West. In this County are comprised the Territories of Trevisano, Bellunese, Feltrino, and Cenedra. The Air is extremely temperate; and the Soil fertile, producing great store of Grain, Fruit and Cattle.

The most considerable Cities and Towns are these: Viz.

• Treviso, Bish. Cap.
• Belluna, Bish.
• Feltri, Bish.
• Ceneda, Bish.
• ...Cadora.
• ...Conegliano.
• ...Orderzo.
• ...La Mota.
• ...Saravalle.

TREVISO, or Trevisi, Tarvisium, the Metropolis of La Marca Trevigiana, in the Latit. of 45 deg. 40 min. and the Longit. of 34 deg. 30 min. is seated on the Banks of the little River Sile, at the distance of 17 Mile North-West of Venice, and 20 North-East of Padua. An Episcopal See hath been a long time established here, under the Patriarchate of Aquileia. The Fortifications of the City of Treviso are considerable; and its Situation in a Marshy Ground renders it almost impregnable. However, the Emperour Maximilian I. took it from the Venetians, A. D. 1509. but was oblig'd to resign it to them within a little while after.

Belluna, or Cividad di Belluno, Bellunum, or Belunum, is a small City water'd by the River Pieve, 10 Miles North-west of Trevigio, and 15 South-East of Feltri, and dignified with the Title of an Episcopal See, under the Metropolitan of Aquileia.

Feltri, or Feltria, stands on the Foot of a Mountain, and the Banks of the Brook Aso, which a little below falls into the Piave, at the distance of 13 Miles from the Frontiers of the County of Tyrol to the East, 25 Miles North-West of Trevigio, 35 North of Padua, and 44 North-West of Venice. It hath remain'd under the Dominion of the Venetians ever since the Year 1404.

Ceneda, Ceneta, or Ceneda Agathrae, a small but well-built City, is in like manner situated on the foot of the Mountains, near the Spring-head of the Brook Motegano, between the River Pieve to the West, and that of Livenza to the East, at the distance of 10 Miles from each; as also 17 Miles North-west of Trevigio, and 13 almost South of Belluno, and as many from Oderzo: The Episcopal See of which last Place, subject to the Metropolitan of Aquileia, was translated hither; but the Bishop usually resides at Serravelle, a neighbouring Town about 2 Miles from thence.

The Province of FRIƲLI, Forojulium, or Provincia Forojuliensis, is bounded on the North by that of Carinthia; on the West, by the Alps, that separate it from the Bishoprick of Trent; on the South, by the Marca Trevigiana, and the Adriatick Sea; and on the East, by Istria. It is extended from North to South for the space of about 55 Miles, and 85 from East to West. This Country heretofore bore the Title of a Dutchy, and was of a much larger compass than it is at present. It is reported, that Julius Caesar impos'd his Name on it, by reason that he maintain'd certain Legions therein. Indeed, the Province of Friuli hath always serv'd as a Passage to the Barbarous Nations that at several times laid waste Italy, and hath been subject to the Dominion of a great number of Masters; until at length, after many Revolutions, Luigi, or Leves Techio, its last proper Lord, entirely lost it, A. D. 1420. by rashly engaging in a War against the Republick of Venice.

The most remarkable Towns, &c. are these: Viz.

• AQƲILEIA, ruin'd Patr.
• Ʋdino, Patr.
• ...Venzona.
• ...Marono.
• ...Palma Nuovo.
• ...Cividat di Friuli.

AQƲILEIA, in the Latit. of 45 deg. 42 min. and Longit. of 35 deg. 50 min. is situated between the Streams of the River Isonzo to the East, and those of the Ansa to the West, almost at equal distance of 32 Miles West of Trieste, and 52 North-east of Venice. It hath been long since dignified with the Ti•le of a Patriarchate, the See whereof is removed to Ʋdino. This City is now almost entirely ruin'd, although in time past so famous, that it was call'd the Second Rome: For it took up the space of four Leagues in compass, and serv'd as a Rampart to defend Italy from the Incursions of the Barbarians. Nevertheless, Attila King of the Huns storm'd and raz'd it, after a Siege of Three Years, A. D. 452. Then it was repair'd by Narses; but sackt again and burnt by the Lombards, in 590. Afterward it was built by Papo the Patriarch, and fell into the hands of the Emperor Charlemagne. Then the Kings of Italy, Dukes of Friuli, Patriarchs and Venetians, were successively Lords thereof. However, the Walls of the same noble City are now demolish'd, and it lies, in a manner desolate, by reason of its Ruins, and the unwholsomness of the Air; for scarcely Five and Thirty Houses remain entire together, with very few Inhabitants that reside therein, during the Winter-Season, excepting a certain Company of Fisher-Men.

Ʋdina, Ʋtinum, seated near the River Torre, is at present the Metropolis of Friuli, since the Patriarchal See of Aquileia hath been translated hither; being distant about 23 Miles West of Gorice, and 50 North-east of Venice. This City (as some Authors avouch) was founded by the Huns, and hath remained in the Possession of the Venetians, ever since the Year 1420. It is about 5 Miles in Compass, and contains 15000 Inhabitants.

The Province of VENICE, or the DOGADO, Ducatus Venetus, is a little Canton lying round about the City of Venice, from the Mouth of the River Lisonzo, as far as the Adige, which appears in form of a Crescent round the Gulf, and is of a small extent, being about 34 Miles long, and only 7 or 8 broad, comprehending within its Bounds the ensuing remarkable Towns: Viz.

• VENICE, Patr. and Cap.
• ...Chiozza.
• ...Torcello.
• ...Grado.
• ...Castel-Nuovo.
• Cahorle, or Caorle.
• ...Loredo.
• ...Lio.
• ...Rebba.
• ...Murano.
• Malamoco, or the Port of Venice:

VENICE, Venetiae, Ital. Venetia and Vinegia, in the Latit. of 45. deg. 10. min. and the Longit. of 34. deg. 50. min. the Metropolis of this State, is situated in the Gulf, or Lake, of the same Name, and founded (according to the common Report) on 72 Islands, which are extended 7 or 8 Miles in Compass, at the distance of 84 Miles almost East of Mantua, 95 North-east of Modena, 126 North of Florence, 168 East of Milan, 220 almost North of Rome, and 230 South West of Vienna in Germany. Its Foundation was begun A. C. 421. when Attila King of the Huns, after having ruin'd Aquileia, march'd forward with a numerous Army to ravage Italy; insomuch that the Paduans, and some other neighbouring People, dreading the approach of the Barbarians, retir'd into the Fens and Marshes of the Adriatick Sea, where they at first built some few Houses on the Isle of Rialto, afterward on 60 other adjacent Islands, and at length on 12 others; all which united together, form one of the strongest, most regular, richest and most flourishing Cities of Europe; which is likewise styl'd the Virgin-City, it not having been ravish'd or attempted by any Enemy for 1200 Years at least. But the Dukes had not as yet establish'd their Seat there, until A. C. 810. for some time after, a palace was erected for them, and another for the Bishop. However, these 72 Islands were separated one from another during 300 Years, and govern'd by certain particular Tribunes, whom every Isle elected yearly, according to their respective Customs; that is to say, this State was then only a Confederacy of many neighbouring Islands, which the common Interest had united for their mutual Defence against the Incursions of their Enemies; and forasmuch as every one of them had a Spiritual Pastor, as well as a Tribune, there were also 72 distinct Parishes. But a late* 1.1 Author professes not to understand where these several Islands were, and affirms that this Hypothesis gives us a false Idea of the Plan and Situation of the City:

For (says he) one would imagine, to hear talk of 72 Island•, that there were as many little Plots of Ground rais'd above the Surface of the Lake; all which being inhabited, became, in process of time, one entire Common-wealth: Which does not appear to have so happen'd, in regard that the whole City of Venice lies on a level, and is altogether built on Piles, the Water washing the Foundations of almost all the Houses, to the height of 4 or 5 Feet, and the breadth of the Channels being always equal. It is true, indeed, that many Spaces of a considerable largeness have been improved; which may induce us to believe, that there was heretofore some firm Land, but not 72 Islands. Furthermore (continues he) if all the Divisions made by the Channels should be counted for Islands, we shall find near 200, instead of 72. It ought also to be observed, That the number of these Islands might be encreas'd ad infinitum, by making new ones wheresoever the Inhabitants shall have a mind to fix Piles, and to build Houses on them. There are 18 or 20 of the like nature dispers'd in the Marsh or Lake of Venice, without reckoning Palestrina, Malamoco, and 8 or 10 others, that have a Bottom of solid Earth, and are real Islands.

Thus far our Author; who assures us, that Venice is seated in a Marshy Ground, which had been overflow'd by the Sea some time before its Foundation; and that this extent of Waters is on that account call'd Lacuna by the Venetians: neither are they, generally speaking, of any great depth, although Vessels of the largest size may sail in some Places, and those of 200 Tuns, come up to the very Keys. Therefore Care hath been taken to turn the Mouths of the Brenta, and some other Rivers, another way, that this Lake might not be choak'd up with Mud or Sand; and that the Earth might not again prevail above the Waters, which would be very prejudicial to the City, since its whole Strength and Security depends on its Situation: neither would it be altogether advantageous thereto, that the same Waters should be every where very deep; because in the state they remain at present, it is almost impossible to approach Venice in a Hostile manner, either by Sea or Land, as some have in Vain attempted. For when King Pepin had for a long time endeavour'd to drive out their Duke Maurice, and his own Son, who had taken part with him, he departed from Ravenna with his Fleet, imagining that he might easily pass every where with full Sails: But Maurice's Vessels, which were conducted through the Navagable Passages, were not dispers'd; whereas those of Pepin founder'd on all Sides in the Mud, so that he was extreamly harrass'd, and constrain'd to betake himself to flight, with the remainder of his Fleet. Somewhat above 300 Years ago, the Genoeses met with the like rude Entertainment. Indeed, it must be acknowledg'd as a very surprising Object, to see so large a City, without any Walls or Ramparts, continually assaulted with the Waves on all sides, and yet standing firm on its Piles, as it were a Rock, the Streets being every where water'd with Channels, on the sides whereof are erected many magnificent Palaces, and stately Houses. But the whole City is divided after such a manner by these Channels and Streets, that there is scarcely a House whereto one cannot go either by Land or Water: not that every Channel has a double Key, as in Holland, for the convenience of those that walk on foot; 'tis true, there are some, but the Channel very often takes up the whole space, reaching from one row of Houses to another. The Streets, which are narrow, run through the small Isles made by the Channels: and there are about 430 Bridges rais'd in divers Places, over all these Channels; so that all the small Passages and Turnings that must necessarily be made to find out the Bridges, render Venice a real Labyrinth.

St. Theodore was the first Patron of Venice, until the Body of St. Mark being transported thither from Alexandria in Egypt, in the beginning of the IXth. Century, this Evangelist was chosen for its principal Protector. The Patriarchal Church is dedicated to St. Peter; and that of St. Mark, notwithstanding its Riches, is only the Doge's Chapel. However, the Primicerio, or Dean of the Canons, wears a Bishop's Mitre and Robe, and does not depend on the Patriarch. He is always a Noble Venetian, and his Yearly Revenues amount to near 1000 Pound Sterling. The Church of St. Mark was first founded A.C. 829. and contains above 500 Pillars of Marble. It is a Greek Structure, almost Square, built in form of a Cross, and beautify'd with many Gothick Ornaments: Its Roof consists of several Domes cover'd with Lead, whereof that in the middle is the largest; and the whole Pavement is made of Jaspar and Porphyry, wrought in Mosaick-work. The High Altar, supported by four Columns, represents in Relief the History of the Old and New Testament. The Chapel of the Holy Sacrament is erected on four Pillars of Alabaster, which (as they say) had serv'd in the Temple of Solomon. In this place is preserv'd the Body of St. Mark; and that famous Treasure of Relicks, enrich'd with Pearls, Diamonds, and other Precious-Stones of an inestimable Value. This stately Church is likewise adorn'd with five Gates of Cast Metal; over the principal of which stand four Horses of Copper Gilt, of the same Workmanship, and of equal Bigness; which (according to the Opinion of some Antiquaries) are the very same that are joyn'd to a Chariot of the Sun, that serv'd as an Ornament to the Triumphal Arch which the Senate of Rome set up in Honour of Nero, after his Victory over the Parthians. For they assure us, That Constantine the Great transported these Horses from Rome to Constantinople, where they were placed in the Hippodrome, and that as last the Venetians having made themselves Masters of this City, brought them hither among other rich Spoils. Of a great number of Statues with which the out-side of the Church is inviron'd, there are only two very considerable, viz. those of Adam and Eve, which were made by Riccio, and are to be seen in going down the great Stair-case of the Palace.

The Grand Place or Court of St. Mark being 280 Paces long, and 110 broad, is bounded at the end by the same noble Pile of Building; and on both sides, by the stately Palaces built with a kind of Marble, and known by the name of the Procuracies, where the exact Symmetry of the Building, the Height of the Pilasters, the Largeness of the Portico's, and Richness of the Statues, are justly admir'd; besides a Clock of most curious Workmanship.

In turning to the Right-hand from the Church of St. Mark, you enter into another magnificent publick Place, commonly call'd the Broglio, leading to the Port of Malamoco, and affording a most Delightful Prospect. It is 250 Paces long, and 80 broad; the Procuraries being continu'd on one side of it, and the Duke's Palace facing it on the other. Near the Sea-shore are erected two stately Columns, which were brought from Constantinople in the time of Sebastian Ziani; the Statue of St. Theodore is set on the top of one of them; and on the other, the Lion of St. Mark. The Tower of St. Mark stands near the Angle of the Square on the In-side, and takes off somewhat from the Symmetry of the Place: It is 316 Foot high, in comprehending the Angle, which serves as a Vane, or Weather-cock. The whole Tower was formerly Gilt; so that when the Sun shone, it was discern'd above 30 Miles off at Sea; but the Gilding is now worn out, and scarcely any thing of it remains. The Broglio is the usual place of Rendezvous of the Venetian Nobility, where they pay Visits one to another, and transact divers Affairs; so that none is permitted to enter among them into that side where they walk, but the other side is left free to all Passengers. This Place is likewise so peculiarly appropriated to their Use, that when a young Noble-man has attain'd to the Age requisite to be admitted into the Council, and to wear the Robe, the first Day that he takes it, he is introduc'd here by four other Nobles, his Friends, with much Ceremony: And when any Person is banish'd from the Council, the Entrance into the Broglio is at the same time forbidden him.

The Palace of St. Mark, joyning to the Church, is a large Pile of Building after the Gothick fashion, and very magnificent: It hath been burnt four or five times, and its divers Reparations are the cause that the Structure is not uniform. That side of it toward the Channel is built with a certain hard Stone brought from Istria, the Design of it being much esteem'd: And indeed, if the other parts of this Fabrick were conformable thereto, it would be a very rare piece of Architecture. The Doge lodges in the same Palace; and there are assembl'd all the Councils of State, and Courts of Judicature. The several Apartments are large, high, and very well wainscoted, but somewhat dark, in comparison of the light which is now required: The Stair-case is made of Marble; and the Portico, supported by a winged Lyon; and the Statue of the Doge Foscari; besides two Colossus's of Mars and Neptune. The College-Hall, where the Affairs of State are transacted, is extremely Large, and adorn'd with curious Paintings; particularly the Portraictures of the Doges, the History of the Council of Constantinople, that of Pope Alexander III. and the Emperour Frederick Barbarossa, &c. But the publick Library is kept in the Procuracies, over against the Palace, on the other side of the Broglio. There are abundance of Greek Manuscripts, which were given by Cardinal Bessarion, who was of that Nation. But there is scarcely any very rare, excepting another Manuscript entituled de Consideratione Dei, and attributed to St. Augustine. However, if this Library is none of the best, or most numerous; yet by way of recompence, divers Paintings of Titian, and some other famous Masters, are found therein, which are infinitely valu'd: Besides a great number of Greek Statues of extraordinary Beauty, particularly those of Ganymedes, Venus, Apollo, two Gladiators, &c.

At one end of the City, on the Sea-shore, stands the Arsenal, and extends its self above 2 Miles in compass: It is reputed to be one of the fairest and largest in Europe, and generally acknowledg'd to be very considerable: but it ought to be consider'd, that the Venetians have no other in Italy; and that not half of what is commonly said of it, is true. They that shew it, would willingly make us believe that there are 2500 Pieces of Artillery, good Arms for 100000 Foot, and compleat Equipage for 25000 Horse. The words, indeed, are soon pronounc'd, but not so easily prov'd. We must also take notice, that within the Enclosure of this Arsenal, are contain'd all sorts of Naval Stores and Tackle, Forges, Casting-houses, Rope-yards, sheds for the Bucentaur, Galleys and Galleasses; Havens and Docks for the Building, Careening and Refitting of Vessels; so that a very large space of Ground must needs be taken up for these Uses. The Venetians have some Men of War, the greatest of which is Nam'd the Redeemer, carrying (as they say) 80 Pieces of Cannon, and 14 Pedereroes. The Galeasses generally have three Batteries in the fore-part, and two in the stern. The Bucentaur is a sort of large Galeasse, very richly adorn'd with Gilding and Sculptures, which serves only to carry the Doge, accompany'd with the Senate, and many other Noblemen, when they go on board every year, on Ascension-day, with great Solemnity to Espouse the Sea. This Ceremony was first Instituted by Pope Alexander III. to confirm to the Venetians the Soveraignty they before pretended to have over the Gulf: the Vessel then us'd on that occasion was called the Bucentaur, and the same Name hath been ever since retain'd: The Captain of this Galeasse takes an Oath, and engages upon his life to bring it back safe and sound into Harbour, although never so great Hurricanes or Storms at Sea should happen to arise. A great part of the Arsenal was burnt in the Year 1565; and the crackling of the Fire (as they say) was heard 40 Miles off. The Government of the Place is committed to three Noblemen▪ The Galeasses are likewise Commanded by Persons of Quality; and indeed, all considerable Employments every where pass through their Hands.

The City of Venice is divided into six Quarters, or Wards, call'd Sestiori; wherein are compris'd 54 Convents of Monks, 26 Nunneries, 17 Hospitals, 18 Chapels, or Stations for the 6 Grand Fraternities; 56 Tribunals, or Courts of Justice; and a great number of Market-places: besides 165 Marble Statues; 25 of Copper; and 8000 Gondola's, or little Boats, for the conveying of Persons and Merchandizes through the Channels. Over the chiefest of these, call'd the Grand Channel, being 1300 Foot long, and 40 broad, stands the famous Bridge of Realto, of one single Arch, adorn'd on both sides with Marble Ballisters. It is indeed generally very much cry'd up, and esteem'd the finest in the World: But this Admiration is the Effect of Prejudice, and the whole Wonder consists in the Dimensions of the Arch, which is somewhat larger than ordinary. The Centry of the Arch makes exactly the third part of a Circle; and there is 80 Foot distance from one end of it, lying even with the level of the Chanel, to the other; Whence it may be inferr'd, that the Arch is near 24 Foot high. This Bridge is very firmly built with large Squares of a kind of White Marble; and there are two rows of Shops, that divide it into three several Passages; the largest in the Middle; and the two lesser, between the Rails and the Back-side of the Shops. It is reported, that 300000 Inhabitants, either Natives or Foreigners, reside at Venice: But Mr. Ray proves, that there cannot be above 200000; as also, that the Republick receives from thence a Revenue of 1400000 Ducats yearly, not comprehending that which ariseth from the Imposts laid on Salt. The City is about as large as Amsterdam, and the number of Houses reckon'd 24870. Among the Magnificent Churches, besides the abovemention'd of St. Mark, those of St. Dominick, St. Zachary, St. George, and St. Saviour, are more especially remarkable.

Chiozza, or Chioggia, Clodia Fossa, is a small City, and the See of a Prelate Suffragan to the Patriarch of Venice, situated in a little Island of the Adriatick Sea, and having a safe Harbour near Brondolo, at the distance of 15 Miles from Venice to the South, toward Loredo. It was heretofore famous for the Victory of the Genoeses, who made themselves Masters thereof, A. D. 1380. But it is now subject to the Dominions of the State of Venice, whereto it affords a very considerable Revenue, by th• making of great quantities of Salt.

Torcello, Torcellum, is a very small Town, and not much frequented, by reason of the unwholsomness of the Air, being distant only 5 Miles from Venice to the North, near the Ruins of Altino, from whence the Episcopal See was translated hither, after the ancient City had been utterly raz'd by the Huns, A. C. 635.

Grado, Gradus, or Nova Aquileia, is seated on the Marshes of the Gulf of Venice, and owes its Foundation to the Inhabitants of Aquileia, who were setled here soon after their City was ruin'd by Attila. It was also, for a long time, the Seat of the Patriarch; and Pope Alexander IV. added divers new Privileges, A. D. 1256, to those which had been already granted to him by Leo IX. in 1050. But at length the Patriarchate was remov'd to Venice by Nicholas V. in 1455; and Lorenzo Giastiarani was the first that attain'd to this Dignity. The City of Grado is of a small compass, but well-built on a little Island of the same Name, next the Continent, at the distance of 12 Miles from Aquileia to the South, and 52 from Venice to the East. It heretofore depended on the Province of Friuli, but is now subject to the Jurisdiction of the Venetians.

The Province of Istria, or Histria; in High-Dutch Istareich; is stretched out in form of a Peninsle, between the Gulfs of Trieste and Quarnero; the Alps, or I Monti della Vena, and the Territories of Friuli, being about 56 Miles long from North to South, and 40 broad from East to West. The Air is not very healthful, more especially along the Sea-coasts: nevertheless, this Country brings forth abundance of excellent Grapes, Olives, Timber, and Marble. The Republick of Venice maintains a Governour in the same Province, and receives from thence a considerable Revenue.

The Chief Cities are these:

• Capo d' Istria, Bish. Cap.
• Cita Nuova, Bish.
• Parenzo, Bish.
• Pola, Bish.

CAPO D' ISTRIA, Justinopolis, or Caput Istriae, in the Latit. of 45 Deg. 30 Min. and the Longit. of 36 Deg. 20 Min. is a very small City on the Coasts of the Adriatick-Gulf, and the Bay of Trieste, yet dignified with the Title of an Episcopal See, under the Patriarchate of Aquileia; being distant 28 Miles almost South of Trieste, and 78 East of Venice, on the other side of the Gulf. It is built in an Island, within Three Arrows shot of the Continent, whereto there is a Passage over certain Draw-Bridges, that may be hoisted-up at pleasure. Moreover an old Fort stands in the middle, which is likewise joyned to the Town by a Bridge; and on the account of the Strength of the Place, is called, The Lion's Castle.

Cita Nuova, Aemonia, or Civitas Nova Istriae, is a small City, which sprang out of the Ruins of ancient Aemonia, from the Ruins whereof it is distant only 3 Miles, scarcely one from the Coasts of the Adriatick-Sea, and the Mouth of the River Quieto, with which it is water'd; as also, 22 Miles almost South of Capo d' Istria, and 70 East of Venice, cross the Gulf. It hath been for some time erected into an Episcopal See, under the Patriarchate of Aquileia, and subject to the Jurisdiction of the State of Venice, ever since the Year 1270. However, at present, it is inhabited only by a few Fisher-men, by reason of its unhealthful Air, and that too, during the Summer season; for in Winter it is altogether abandon'd, and left desolate.

Pola; Julia Pietas, or Pola, was Founded by the Colchi, and hath a very capacious Harbour on the Coasts of the Adriatick-Sea, being also the Seat of a Prelate, who is a Suffragan to the Patriarch of Aquileia. It is distant 6 Miles from the Promontory, call'd from thence Il Capo di Pola, to the North-West, 46 Miles almost South of Cabo d' Istria, and 80 North of Ancona. It hath for its defence a small Citadel, which is not very strong; and the Venetian Governour commands therein under the Title of a Count.

The Province of Dalmatia; Dalmatia being extended along the Coasts of the Venetian Gulf, is bounded on the West by Istria, on the North by Croatia, on the East by Albania, and on the South by the Adriatick-Sea; being in length about 240 Miles, and in breadth about 60 in the widest place. These Territories are possess'd partly by the Turks, and partly by the Venetians. The small Republick of the Regusa, which is the Epidaurus of the Ancients, is likewise establish'd therein. The Dalmatians speak the Sclavonian-Tongue, profess the Roman-Catholick Religion, and are well-vers'd in Military Affairs. This Country, in time past, bore the Title of a Kingdom; but the Venetians are now Masters of the ensuing Cities and Town, viz.

• Zara, Archb. Cap.
• Spalatro, Archb.
• Nona, Bish.
• Badua, Bish.
• Cataro, Bish.
• Scardona, Bish.
• St. Nicolo.
• Sebenico, Bish.
• ...Clossa.
• ...Salona.
• ...Almissa.
• ...Aagrigrado.
• ...Veicchio.

ZARA, Jadera; in the Sclavonian Tongue Zadar, in the Latit. of 44 Deg. 30 Min. and the Longit. of 30 Deg. 10 Min. is a Port of the Adriatick-Sea, and the Metropolis of Dalmatia, enjoying the Title of an Arch-bishoprick. 'Tis encompass'd on all sides with the Sea, and joyn'd only to the Continent by a Draw-bridge; being distant 80 Miles South-West of Jaicza, 116 North-East of Ancona, 165 North-West of Raguri, and 184 almost South-East of Venice. It is also fenced with 6 Bastions, and the adjacent Countrey is commonly called from thence, Il Contado di Zara. Ladislaus, King of Naples, (who had purchas'd this City for the Sum of 100000 Ducats, as we are inform'd by Johannes Lucius, a Learned Citizen of Trau,) sold it; together with Novigrad, and some other places appertaining to its Jurisdiction, to the Republick of Venice; and it, as yet, remains in their possession.

Spalatro, or Spalato; Spalatum, or Salonae Novae, is a large and well-fortified City on the Coasts of the Adriatick-Sea, where heretofore stood a Palace of the Roman Emperour Dioclesian; from whence it took its Name, and grew up out of the Ruins of Solana, which had been rais'd by the Sclavonians, and was distant from it only 4 Miles to the North. It was also erected into a Metropolitan See, in the room of the former, and presides over the Suffragan Bishopricks of Lesina, or Huar, Trau, Sebenico, Tine, and Almissa. The City of Spalato is adorn'd with a capacious and safe Harbour, and hath remain'd under the Dominion of the Venetians ever since the Year 1420. although the Turks have often, in vain, attempted to make themselves Masters thereof. It is distant 30 Miles South-East of Sebenico, 32 South of Bagnialuck, 74 South-East of Zara, and 92 North-West of Ragori. This place is remarkable for the Ruins of Dioclesian's Palace.

Nona, or Nin, according to the pronunciation of the Sclavonians; in Latin, Aenone, or Enonae, a small, but strong City, is environ'd, for almost altogether, with the Adriatick-Sea, over against the Island of Pago, from whence it is separated with a Streight 4 Miles broad to the West, being also distant 13 from Zara to the North, and about 35 from Segna. It hath, in like manner, a convenient Port, and is the Seat of a Prelate, Suffragan to the Arch-bishop of Zara.

Budoa, Butua, or Bulva, is situated on the Coasts of Albania, at the distance of 10 Miles from Antivari to the North-West, and 30 from Scutari, or Scodar to the West, between Castel Nuovo, or Lattaro, to the North, and Dolcigno to the South. It is an Episcopal See, under the Metropolitan of Antivari, which was taken by the Turks, A. D. 1571. and hath been, in like manner, infested through the Inroads of those Infidels. It is also regularly Fortify'd; but hath suffer'd much Damage through the violence of an Earthquake that happen'd A. D. 1667.

Cataro, Caterum, or Cattara; seated on a Gulf of the same Name, is defended with a strong Castle, built on an Hill, and distant 30 Miles North-West of Scutari, and 50 South-East of Raguri; its Episcopal See having formerly depended on the Metropolitan of the same City; but is, at present, subject to that of Bari. The City of Cattaro, together with 17 Villages, appertaining to its Jurisdiction, hath been possess'd by the Venetians ever since the Year 1420.

Scardona; Scardona, or Scordona, is a ruin'd City, seated near the Lake of Prochlian, on an adjacent Mountain, at the distance of 9 Miles from Sebenico to the North, and 35 from Zara to the East, having an Episcopal See subject to the Metropolitan of Spalatro. It was sold, A. D. 1411. together with Ostrovice, for the sum of 5000 Ducats of Gold, by Sandaglius Waywood of Bosnia, to the Venetians, by whom it was also taken and raz'd in 1570.

Sebenico; Sebenicum, or Sibenicum, a well-fortified City, on the Coasts of the Adriatick-Sea, hath remain'd under the Jurisdiction of the State of Venice, ever since the Year 1412. whereas it was before only a Sea-Port Town of Croatia, until Pope Boniface VIII. erected it into an Episcopal See; under the Metropolitan of Spalatro. It is defended with a Castle built on an Hill, together with the strong Cittadel of St. Nicolas, and hath often repuls'd the Turkish Forces, that, in vain, endeavour'd to make themselves Masters thereof. It is distant 30 Miles North-West of Spalatro, and 44 South-East of Zara. Moreover, the Venetians possess many other Places on the Coasts of Albania, and among others,

Butrinto, or Butrotum, over against the Island of Corfu; as also, a great Number of Islands in the Gulf and Archipelago, on the Western Coasts of Greece; the Chief of which are these, viz.

• Corfu, Arch. Cap.
• Cefalonia, Bish.
• Zante, Bish.
• Currola, Bish.
• Ossero, Bish.
• Vegia, Bish.
• Alba, Bish.
• ...La Grande.
• ...Incorronada.
• ...Salta.
• ...La Brazza.
• ...Torta.
• ...Cherso.
• ...Pago.

The Island of CORFƲ; Corcyra, in the Longit. of 44 and 45 Deg. and the Latit. of 49. Deg. 40 Min. is situated in the Ionian Sea, to the West of the Continent of Greece, at the distance of 2 Leagues from the Coasts of Epirus; extending it self in length, from South to North-West, about 20 Leagues; 7 or 8 in breadth from West to East; and 46 in compass. It is divided into 4 Baronies, or Bailiages. The Air is extreamly healthful, and the Soil brings forth many Vines, Olive-Trees, Orange-Trees, Citron-Trees, &c. which grow there in great abundance; together with divers sorts of very rare Plants. The Metropolis of this Island bears the same Name, and the Title of an Arch-bishoprick. The Inhabitants thereof are Christians, partly of the Greek, and partly of the Latin Church. It hath a commodious Harbour, and a well stored Arsenal; being also fortifyed with two strong Castles erected on a Mountain, wherein is maintain'd a considerable Garrison. This City fell into the Hands of the Venetians, A. D. 1382. and was in Vain besieged by the Turks, in 1537.

The Island of Cefalonia, Cephalenia, between the 37 Deg. 15 Min. and the 47 Deg. 45 Min. of Latit. and in 45 Deg. of Longit. lies in like manner in the Ionian Sea, between that of Lucada to the North, and Zante to the South: It includes about 20 Leagues from South to North-east, 14 from West to East, and 51 in compass. The Capital City of the same Name is founded on an Hill, and very well fortifyed, being also dignified with the Title of an Episcopal See, Suffragan to that of Corfu. The other places, which were heretofore Cities, are at present only Boroughs and Villages. On the Southern Side of the Isle, toward that of Zante, is situated a very capacious and safe Harbour, called The Port of Argostoli. The Inhabitants generally observe the Rites of the Greek Church.

Zante, Zacynthus, is distant 18 Miles from Il Capo Tornese, a Promontory of the Morea to the West, and 12 from the Island of Cefalonia to the South. It is usually divided into Three Parts, termed La Montagna, Il Piedimonte, and La Pianura, in which are contained 48 Towns; the Principal whereof is likewise named Zante, and hath been, for some time, the Seat of a Prelate, suffragan to the Arch-bishop of Corfu. Here also stands a Fortress, in which the Venetians maintain a strong Garrison; and the Natives drive a very great Trade in Currans.

The Island of Corzola; Corcyra Melaena or Nigra, in the Latit. of 43 Deg. and the Longit. of 41 Deg. 30 Min. is extended in length for the space of 25 Miles on the Coasts of Dalmatia, near the Frontiers of the Republick of Ragusa, to the Jurisdiction whereof it was heretofore subject. Five Towns or Villages are included within its compass, the chief of which bears the same Name as the Island, and therein is established an Episcopal See under the Metropolitan of Ragusa.

Ossero; Absorus, Apsorrus or Absyrtium, between the 44 and 45 Deg. of Latit. is an Island of a very small Compass, lying at the Distance of 6 Miles from that of La Vogio to the South, and 30 from Segna, a City of Croatia. It is extended from the South to North-West, for the space of about 10 or 11 Leagues, and 4 from West to East.

Vegia or Veglia, Curicum, Curictum and egin, call'd Kirk by the Sclavonians, is situated on the Coasts of the Adriatick-Sea, and stretched out for the space of 30 Miles from South-East to North-West. The principal Town of this Island, of the same Name, seated on the Western Part thereof, was formerly subject to the Counts of Frangipani, and fell into the possession of the Venetians, Anno Dom. 1430. It also hath been, long since, erected into an Episcopal See, under the Metropolitan of Zara.

Arbe, Arba or Arbum, named Rab in the Sclavonian Tongue, is distant 13 Miles from Segna to the South, and extends its self only for the space of 15 Miles from East to West. Its principal Town is known by the same Name, and affords a Seat to a Prelate, suffragan to the Arch-bishop of Zara. In sailing from hence toward the South-East, we meet with the Isles of Pago, Malaral, Grande, L'Incoronado, St. Archangelo, Sotta, Lesina, La Brazza, Lissa, St. Andrea, Malisola, Cura, &c. As for the Island of Candia, the Peninsle of the Morea, the Territories of Athens, and the Archipelago, where the Venetians possess some Places, a particular Account shall be given of them in the Description of the respective Countries, whereto at present they appertain.