Question

This city state sits in many canals and waterways and was an important center of trade prior to European discover of water of water routes to Asia

Answer 1

The city state you are referring to is Venice, Italy. Venice is well-known for its intricate network of canals and waterways, which crisscross the entire city. It served as a vital trading center during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, connecting Europe with the East and playing a crucial role in the Silk Road trade route. Venetian merchants controlled much of the trade between Europe and Asia before the discovery of alternate water routes, such as the Cape of Good Hope and the route around Africa to reach Asia.