Emanuele Filiberto, Duke of Savoy (1528-1580)

On this day in history:  Emanuele Filiberto, Duke of Savoy dies

Emanuele Filiberto, Duke of Savoy, died on 30th August 1580 in Turin. He was a significant figure in European history, credited with revitalising the Duchy of Savoy after years of decline. Known as Testa di Ferro (Iron Head) due to his resolute determination, he played a pivotal role in restoring Savoy’s sovereignty and modernising its […]

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A dramatic depiction by Luigi Querena of the blazing Church of San Geremia on the Grand Canal during the Austrian air raid

On this day in history: World’s First Air Raid

On 22nd August 1849, the city of Venice witnessed a historic and unprecedented event: the world’s first air raid. Long before the age of aeroplanes and modern warfare, this remarkable feat was achieved by primitive, unmanned balloons. It marked a pivotal moment in military history, laying the groundwork for the concept of aerial bombardment.

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