Piazza  San  Marco​

​By Dion Protani
Latest update: 28 April 2022
Whether you call it Saint Mark's Square or Piazza San Marco, this landmark square is at the very centre of Venice's best sights. All year round, the busy Piazza is thronged with tourists who vie for position with the thousands of pigeons searching for food.

The eastern end of the square is dominated by the city's main church: Basilica di San Marco, adorned by the bronze Quadriga. 
The Quadriga is a set of four horses that were ripped from the Hippodrome in Constantinople (now Istanbul) which adorn the Byzantine/Gothic facade of the magnificent Basilica. Part of the Venetian booty from the fourth Crusade, the horses were installed to represent the strength of the maritime city state in the 13th century.

The piazza in all its glory can best be viewed from one of two elevated vantage points: the lower of these is from just below the bronze horses on the balcony of the Basilica, or alternatively, from the top of Saint Mark's Bell Tower. There's so much to see in Venice that it can be difficult to take in everything on one visit, but the view from the top of the Campanile (Bell Tower) provides a magnificent panorama of not just the city, but the whole Venice Lagoon area. 
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Piazza San Marco, also known as St. Mark's Square, is the main public square in Venice, Italy, and is often considered one of the most beautiful and iconic squares in the world. Steeped in history and surrounded by stunning architecture, Piazza San Marco has been the heart of Venice's political, religious, and social life for centuries.

History: The history of Piazza San Marco dates back to the 9th century when it was just a small area in front of the original St. Mark's
Basilica. Over the centuries, the square expanded and evolved into the grand space we see today.

The square became the center of Venetian life, hosting important ceremonies, festivities, and political events. It also served as a major trading hub, where merchants from all over the world would gather.

Tourist Information: Piazza San Marco is a major tourist attraction in Venice and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city. Here's what you can expect to find in this historic square:

  • St. Mark's Basilica: The grand centerpiece of the square is St. Mark's Basilica, a stunning example of Byzantine architecture. The basilica is adorned with intricate mosaics, marble columns, and impressive domes. Visitors can explore the interior of the basilica, which houses numerous religious artifacts and relics.
  • Campanile di San Marco: Adjacent to the basilica is the Campanile, a tall bell tower offering panoramic views of Venice from its top. It's a great spot to get a bird's-eye view of the city's unique layout.
  • Doge's Palace: Facing the waterfront on the eastern side of the square is the magnificent Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale). This stunning Gothic palace was the residence of the Doge of Venice and the seat of Venetian government.
  • Clock Tower: The Clock Tower (Torre dell'Orologio) is an impressive landmark on the northern side of the square, featuring a beautiful astronomical clock with moving figurines.
  • Cafes and Restaurants: Piazza San Marco is lined with cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a coffee or a meal while taking in the splendid surroundings. Keep in mind that dining in this area can be quite expensive due to its popularity.
  • Pigeons: Piazza San Marco is famous for its pigeons, and feeding them has become a popular tourist activity. While it may seem fun, be cautious as feeding the pigeons is now discouraged due to environmental and health concerns.
  • Live Music and Entertainment: The square often hosts live music performances, art exhibits, and other events, adding to the lively atmosphere of the place.
  • Access: Piazza San Marco is located in the heart of Venice and is easily accessible on foot. It is a central point in the city, making it an excellent starting point for exploring other attractions.

Piazza San Marco's historical significance, magnificent architecture, and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for travelers to Venice. Be prepared for large crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons, but don't let that detract from the experience of enjoying this iconic square and its treasures.

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