Advancing History
The 14th Century map from the Chronologia Magna is the first document to make reference to the Arsenale Vecchio.
Over the centuries the fortified shipyard of the Arsenale provided a home for the mighty Venetian Navy, and became a hub of innovation, with some of the earliest examples of industrialisation and mechanisation in the World . Thousands of men worked for the Patroni all’Arsenale, staffing an ancient assembly line that included the processing of timber from the specially planted forest on the mainland known as St Mark’s wood to form masts and hulls, in addition to the specially constructed Corderie, or rope works
Creative and scientific innovation flourished on the site, with nascent research into marine currents , sail design and bronze casting being founded within the Arsenale. It was here Galileo Galilei presented the Venetian Signoria with the telescope that enabled Galileo to make his astronomical discoveries, and the Venetian Navy to gain a clear advantage over competitors
The Arsenale we see today embodies a long process that began in the 12th Century and created a space for invention and industry that defined Venice’s success. This initiative sets out a future vision that can reignite this innovation . It gives detail to the idea of environmental resilience and demonstrates how Venice has significant interest and capital to develop this area once more. We are exploring the the opportunities presented by knowledge economies, and the importance of building relationships with educational institutions, the creative sector and existing Arts institutions in the City . Providing once more production activities and a thriving local community of workers and families.
This proposed development explores the role technology and research and development within the broad panoply of the creative industries can play in ensuring the Arsenale is once again a vibrant and productive part of Venice.
Further reading