Located in the northern Adriatic Sea, Venice is one of the most visited cities in the world. It has a long history and a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the city's architecture and the many canals. They also have the opportunity to take part in concerts and street performances. When it was built, Venice was a seaport that became a thriving economic center. At the time, it was considered the largest port in medieval Europe. In fact, it was the continent's commercial link to Asia. As the seaport and the nation's wealth grew, the Republic of Venice became one of the world's most powerful financial powers. With a well-established legal system and checks and balances in place to prevent corruption, the country avoided the fate of other European states with feudal systems. The Republic of Venice ruled from 697 to 1797. After the Napoleonic invasion in 1797, Venice was incorporated into the Kingdom of Italy.