The Third Italian War of Independence was a war between the Kingdom of Italy and the Austrian Empire fought between June and August 1866. The conflict paralleled the Austro-Prussian War and resulted in Austria conceding the region of Venetia to France, which was later annexed by Italy after a plebiscite. Italy's acquisition of this wealthy and populous territory represented a major step in the Unification of Italy.
Austrian Uhlans charge Italian Bersaglieri during the Battle of Custoza. Painting by Juliusz Kossak
Allegory of Venice, represented by the lion, hoping to join Italy, represented by the woman
The naval Battle of Lissa, 20 July 1866
Battle of Bezzecca, 21 July 1866
Veneto or the Venetia is one of the 20 regions of Italy, located in the north-east of the country. It is the fourth most populous region in Italy, with a population of about five million. Venice is the region's capital while Verona is the largest city.
Venice, the primary tourist destination and the capital of Veneto
Lake Alleghe near Belluno