Venice. Italy

The city built on water has never been afraid to try the impossible. When plague hit Europe, Venice consulted its Mediterranean doctors, who advocated a precaution that has saved countless lives since: quarantine. Under attack by Genovese enemies, Venice innovated and was producing a new warship every day. After Genoa backed Christopher Columbus' venture to the New World, Venice's shipping industry began to wane– but Venice would go on to become the launch pad for baroque music and modern opera.