Interestingly, some of the earliest accounts of Venice's original population have historians claiming she belonged to Roman refugees during a time of Indo-European (Germanic) storming. Throughout a vast timeline of events, this ancient city's renaissance has transformed since its devastating decline in the 15th century, when it lost a standing authority on international commerce. However, even through continued disparages of hostile environments and warfare, Venice became a graceful haven of resources that branched the influence of both literature and masterful artistry. This shifting time of revolution is referred to as Settecento, an Italian word meaning seven hundred, though better known as the 18th century. 

Remaining a picturesque destination for travelers, the essence of Venice is shared with Italy's breathless rendition of literature, tradition, fashion, and artistic eminence. Nearly every aspect of such divine Italian culture balances the scales between the likes of Dante, Marco Polo, Giacoma Casanova, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Leonardo da Vinci. Even some of the world's most renowned stories derive from Italian folklore. Similarly are the celebrated accounts of Santa Claus and Saint Nicholas on the eve of Christ's birth, one of the most renowned and relatable chronicles is the storytelling of La Befana. Immortalized as an elderly woman or "good witch" who not only leaves holiday gifts and goodies… but who may also sweep the floors of hopefuls who have been good throughout the year.

Arriving on Epiphany Eve of January 6th, La Befana enters homes through the chimney and bestows gifts to the children of the Italy, while bad boys and girls receive mere lumps of coal. As with any fairytale, the presence of such magical characters should be felt and never seen. And with several religious theories, the fable remains that if one peeks at La Befana… consequently, she'll thump you on the head with her mighty broomstick. But no matter the legendary history, Venice continues to be an enchanting city to marvel. With awe-inspiring cathedrals and churches, the Piazza San Marco, sidewalk cafés, opera houses, Palazzo Grassi on the Grand Canal, markets, and delectable restaurants … the extent of such extraordinary beauty will be capturing the hearts of many for years to come.

Bestselling author and celebrity chef, Maria Liberati, is hosting a weeklong Mediterranean culinary food and wine cruise in November 2008, so now is the perfect time to start planning that European getaway. But before cruising into the Venetian sunset, be sure to visit http://www.marialiberati.com for more information, and get your copy of the bestselling book, The Basic Art of Italian Cooking, by Maria Liberati.

Visit http://www.localwineevents.com/Veneto-Wine/event-190127.html for additional culinary cruise details.