St. Marks Square

Piazza San Marco or St. Mark’s Square is the main square of Venice in Italy. This large urban space sits facing the lagoon and is one of the most frequented destinations in the city.

Sights & Activities

Visitors who come to the square often sit down in one of the outdoor cafes that are numerous in the area and enjoy the lively atmosphere. On the northeastern end of the square is the Basilica San Marco or St. Mark’s Basilica. The original structure was built in the 9th century AD to house the relics of St. Mark the Evangelist that were taken from Alexandria. The present structure was consecrated in 1094 though numerous additions have been made since then. The basilica is of the Byzantine style of architecture and bears an impressive façade with numerous works of arts adorning it. One of the highlights of the façade is the Horses of St. Mark, bronze replicas of the original sculptures now displayed in the St. Mark’s Museum inside the basilica. In the south-west corner of the basilica is the porphyry statue of the Tetrarchy, depicting the co-ruling plan imposed by Emperor Diocletian. Like the Horses of St. Mark, the statue originally came from Constantinople and was taken to Venice as loot. Highlights of the interior include the impressive marble floor and the upper order which is decorated in bright mosaics inlaid with gold, bronze, and precious stones. Visitors can also take the lift to view awesome cityscapes afforded at the top of the basilica. Another attraction within the basilica is Treasures of St. Mark’s, which include items made of gold, silver, and glass, most of which bearing precious stones. Other notable item is the throne-reliquary of St. Mark.

Fronting the basilica is the Doge’s Palace, which bears the formal name Palazzo Ducale di Venezia. This Gothic structure has been the residence of the Doge of Venice. The present structure was built in the 15th century and uses arcades in the lower part of the structure. It now houses a museum that is also a well-known tourist attraction.

The palace is connected to the Ponte dei Sospiri or the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the interrogation rooms of the palace to the old prisons of the city. This enclosed bridge has windows with stone bars, said to afford prisoners with their last views of the city before taken to their cells. It was said that lovers will gain eternal love if they kiss on a gondola while passing under the bridge at sunset.

The Doge’s Palace faces an open space called the Piazzetta and on its western side is the St. Mark’s Campanile, which serves as the belltower of St. Mark’s Basilica. It was originally erected in 1514 and underwent reconstruction following collapse at the start of the 20th century. It is of simple design, with arched belfry containing five bells. On top of the belfry is a pyramidal spire with a golden weathervane shaped to the image of the archangel Gabriel. The bell tower strikes every hour and visitors can climb up to the top to admire city views.

On the northern edge of the square is the St. Mark’s Clocktower, constructed at the end of the 15th century. It was built to aid sailors about to depart from the city. The tower bears the Lion of St. Mark and two bronze statues known as the ‘Moors.’ These statues ring a bell as the hour changes.

Eating Out

The numerous cafes around the square serve snacks and light meals. Around the square are several restaurants, including the Ristorante Alla Colomba on Sestiere San Marco, the Trattoria Chinellato on Sestiere Castello, and the Ristorante Do Forni on Calle Specchieri.