Inside the hidden quarters of history's greatest seducer
The greatest lover of all time, Giacomo Casanova, is also one of the most misunderstood figures of the 18th century. Beyond his legendary romantic escapades, he was an alchemist, a spy (credited with coining the term "secret agent"), a diplomat, a musician, an actor, and above all, a brilliant writer.
On the 300th anniversary of his birth, author and cultural historian Lia Celi retraces his steps through his native Venice—visiting an ancient 'alchemical' pharmacy, the world's oldest café and the original 'casino' quarters, today hidden in an insurance building.
By Anna Bressanin, Filmed by Matteo Calore, Edited by Elisabetta Abrami, Graphics by Pomona Picture
Special thanks to Cristiana Rivolta and Caffè Florian; Maddalena Di Sopra, Ercole d'Oro Pharmacy, Merchant of Venice; Roberto Mazzetto, Stamperia Venezia; Casino Venier, Alliance Francaise; Chiara Vedovetto, Musei Civici di Venezia, Venice Film Commission.