Casanova and the Great Escape
Giacomo Girolamo Casanova was born in Venice in 1725. His mother was a traveling actress who left him in the care of his grandmother, and his father died when he was a young child. The atmosphere of Venice during the early years of Casanova’s life was one of permitted excess watched over by stern Inquisitors who mostly looked the other way because Venice’s reputation as the party capitol of Europe brought many wealthy tourists to the area. Casanova grew up to become a notorious playboy, writer and seeker of arcane knowledge. His carnal pursuits are so legendary that his very name is synonymous with suave romanticism.
At the age of 30, Casanova was so flamboyant that his antics could no longer be ignored by the Inquisitors of Venice. He was arrested and sentenced without trail to five years in the Leads. The Leads were a series of 7 cells located in the Doges palace, and were called Leads because they had lead roofs which made them miserable year round. Casanova languished in his cell for months before he formulated an escape plan. With the help of a rogue priest in the next cell, Casanova broke through the roof of his cell and the two men made their way from the roof of the palace back inside and out the front door. Legend has it that Casanova enjoyed a triumphant cup of coffee in the Piazza before he made his escape via gondola.
The story of Casanova’s life does not end there, and he lived other places than Venice. However, no other city is quite so synonymous with Casanova as the great City of Masks. It is now possible to visit Casanova’s old stomping ground, the historic Venice red light district. There is even a statue of Casanova there to commemorate his contributions to the history and mystique of Venice. If you happen to be staying at one of the fine hotels in Venice which are located near the Carampane di Rialto, you are not far at all from where Casanova once caroused. Most Venice hotels feature someone who will be able to direct you to this historic area, even if you are not staying close.
About the Author
Peter Merifield is a London-based freelance journalist with a mission to make you a better and happier human being. Drawing attention to the peculiarities of life in the modern age is all part of the package.Check out his other articles for everything you need to know about travel destinations.
Boys Like Girls – The Great Escape
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