Everybody knows about Piazza San Marco, in Venice. That’s the main square, the one you see on TV. That’s where the Doge of Venice, the great authority of the former Republic of Venice, resided. But, right next to the Doge’s Palace, there’s another important landmark: Basilica San Marco.
A Bit Of History About Basilica San Marco
San Marco, Venice’s protector
At first, the building was supposed to be an extension of the Doge’s Palace. That’s why it’s attached to it. When you see it, you might even think that it’s one and only construction.
But 2 Venetian merchants brought Saint Mark’s body from Alexandria (Egypt) around 828 and the Basilica was chosen to house his remains. Saint Mark (San Marco) became the protector of Venice. And the construction of this beautiful basilica made the city an independent episcopal seat.
The Basilica’s style
The Basilica is amazing, from outside and inside! A lot of colors and a lot of gold, with some gorgeous designs made out of marble on the walls and floors.
The basilica underwent several renovations over the centuries. It was restored in 1063 in Roman-Byzantine style, to show the power of the Venetian Republic. Later, Gothic arches were added, sculptures and mosaics, etc. The final result could have been strange, but the blend of styles was beautifully executed and the current Basilica is simply stunning!
Let’s Be Practical: How Do You Get Inside The Basilica?
Basilica San Marco is open most of the day, from about 9.30 am to 5.15 pm. You don’t have to book in advance, but you’ll have to be patient. The queue is usually quite long and can discourage you to try. However, know that it moves quickly and I don’t think we waited more than 30 minutes (both times I visited).
The entrance is not free, it costs 3 euros each, except for children who are less than 7 years old. You can buy your ticket at the entrance, from a machine. Inside, you can pay a supplement (5 euros) to see the Pala d’Oro. Given its name, I thought that it would be a golden ball, but it’s actually the altar retable of the basilica. I never paid to see it. Another 7 euros and you can access the museum. In my honest opinion, I think the basilica itself is quite an experience.
Be careful not to have a big bag! Otherwise, you might have to store it in the luggage storage and queue again… Also, wear appropriate enough clothes. The instructions are very strict, but I’ve seen people wearing shorts going in without any trouble. I guess it depends who guards the entrance.
What Else Can You See And Visit On Piazza San Marco?
The piazza is next to the lagoon and offers some incredible views of the water, the typical gondolas and some other islands. There are several bridges next to the famous square that are perfect to take pictures of the city or cute selfies of yourself.
Of course, on the square, you can visit the Doge’s Palace. I recommend booking your tour, but it depends when you go. It’s not cheap, it’s about 30 euros, but I think that it’s worth it. Plus, you are in one of the most touristic places in the world, of course, it’s expensive…
Then, there’s the Clock Tower that gives you a view of Venice from above (choose a beautiful day). Be reassured, there’s a lift, so you won’t have to climb a thousand steps.
Then, there’s San Marco square itself, with cute shops and cafés. You can eat and drink while listening to classical music played live for you, you can buy detailed glass objects, you can buy delicious ice-cream. Or you can just sit and look at people taking selfies in the middle of crowds of pigeons.
By day and by night, the square is beautiful.
To see more photos of Italy, you can visit the gallery Italy.
