Which Italian city was first struck by the plague that spread through Europe?

The correct answer is Constantinople. In 1347, the Black Death, or bubonic plague, made its way into Europe from Asia. The disease first entered Europe through Constantinople, a major city and trading hub that connected Europe and Asia. As merchants and traders arrived in the city, they inadvertently brought the plague with them, which then spread rapidly through trade routes and to other parts of Europe, including Italy.

Constantinople's strategic position as a gateway between continents facilitated the dissemination of the disease. This event marked the beginning of a devastating pandemic that would have far-reaching effects on European society, economy, and culture over the following years. The plague did indeed affect Italian cities subsequently, but the initial outbreak in Europe is historically recorded as occurring in Constantinople.

The other cities listed, although highly significant in their own right, were not the first to experience the outbreak of the plague. Venice, Florence, and Rome were later victims of the disease as it spread across the continent following its introduction through the key routes radiating from Constantinople.