For God and Treasure
The Adventures of Marco Polo and Christopher Columbus
Join the Naples Italian American Foundation for an engaging, illustrated presentation by Michael J. Ranieri exploring the remarkable journeys of two of history’s most famous Italian explorers: Marco Polo of Venice and Christopher Columbus of Genoa.
Separated by two centuries, Polo and Columbus lived in different worlds, yet both were shaped by Italy’s great maritime traditions, international trade, religious faith, personal ambition, and the desire to reach the riches of Asia.
The presentation begins with Venice, La Serenissima, and Genoa, La Superba — two powerful maritime republics whose wealth and influence grew through trade, navigation, and connections extending far beyond the Italian peninsula.
Travel east with Marco Polo as he journeys across Asia in the 13th century and returns to Europe with extraordinary accounts of the peoples, cultures, religions, and wealth he encountered. His writings helped expand Europe’s understanding of the wider world and inspired generations of explorers.
Then follow Christopher Columbus as he sails west two centuries later in search of a new route to Asia. His voyages brought Europe into sustained contact with the Americas and began one of the most significant — and controversial — periods of change in world history.
Through maps, historical images, period artwork, and contemporary photographs, For God and Treasure examines the connections and differences between Polo and Columbus while exploring the importance of trade with Asia, Christianity and the papacy, the search for wealth and new trade routes, and the lasting consequences of exploration.
Ultimately, the presentation considers a fascinating question: How did the pursuit of God, treasure, knowledge, and opportunity help propel Europeans beyond the limits of the world they knew?
Approximate presentation length: 45–60 minutes, followed by questions and discussion.
All are welcome.
Doors Open 5:30 pm – Cash Bar
Happy Hour Buffet-Menu to follow!
Members $25 – Non-Members $40
Casual Attire
The deadline for reservations is Saturday, January 23rd
Click Here to reserve your spot today
