Venice

This is a state which dramatically influenced all Mediterranean trade. It was situated on the crossroads of the most vital trade routes. Venice emerged in the middle of the 5th century. Later, in the 9th to 10t centuries, it became the largest trading centre between Europe and Asia. At the time of the Crusades, it was involved in supply and transportation for armies of crusaders, which later gained it very important trade privileges. In 1380, Venice managed to cope with its European challenger - Genua. The 15th century brought a number of trading cities under its wing - Padua, Vicenza, Verona, Bresia, Bergamo, Ravenna, Faenza, Cremona, Friul. The conquest of Constantinople by the Turkish army cast a serious blow to Venice. The Venetian fleet led a furious fight against barbarian pirates striving to control the Mediterranean sea. Due to the development of relations with the "New World" and the relocation of main trading routes, Venice lost its primary status but still remained the richest Mediterranean state.

Unique units - Galleass