GdwnsnHo
Banned
That's only true in name.In fact,all of Northern Italy is de facto independent of the HRE.
100% true - but that defacto/dejure difference is vitally important - it means the HRE cannot declare a war on the basis of being the HRE. It is an island fortress geographically, logistically, and the best part : politically.
In fact, I can see it making whoever controls Venice (and the environs) a vital player in any future N.Italian wars. France invades and allies with Rhomania, Venice acts as a thorn in the side of the Austrians/Germans, vice versa - they provide an additional avenue of supply.
I'll stop - I think it is clear I've fallen in love with the idea