Venice is a city in northeastern Italy and the capital of the Veneto region. It is built on a group of 118 small islands that are separated by canals and linked by bridges. The city is located in the Venetian Lagoon, an enclosed bay lying between the mouths of the Po and the Piave rivers. Venice was historically the capital of the Republic of Venice, which was a major maritime power during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. The city was known for its importance in commerce, art, and architecture. Venice is also famous for its several important artistic movements, especially the Renaissance period. Today, Venice is recognized as part of the artistic and architectural patrimony of all humanity.