Saint Mark's Square

Piazza San Marco, often considered the heart of Venice, is much more than just a square. Known for its extraordinary beauty and rich history, it has played a crucial role in the political, social, and artistic development of the city. Napoleon Bonaparte, captivated by its magnificence, described it as “the most beautiful drawing room in Europe.” Located in the historic center of Venice, the square is a large rectangle measuring about 180 meters in length and 70 meters in width, the only space in the city to be called a “piazza” while all others are referred to as “campi” or “campielli.” Its history dates back to the 9th century, when it was created as an open area next to the Basilica of San Marco. However, the square took on its current form only in 1177, and was paved about a century later with herringbone patterned bricks. Over the centuries, the pavement has been redone several times, the last time in 1582. One of the most iconic elements of the square is the Basilica of San Marco, one of the most majestic churches in the world, a jewel of Byzantine architecture. The current basilica was consecrated in 1094 under the dogeship of Vitale Falier. Over time, its structure was enriched with precious objects and sculptures from the East, especially after the Sack of Constantinople in 1204. The golden mosaics of the basilica, covering an area of over 8000 square meters, tell the story of San Marco and other biblical stories, shining like a visual narrative of the power and wealth of Venice. Facing the basilica is the Campanile of San Marco, one of the most recognizable symbols of the city. Originally built in the 12th century, the campanile has been rebuilt several times, the last time after its collapse in 1902. With its nearly 99 meters in height, it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the lagoon. Next to the basilica is the Doge’s Palace, a Gothic masterpiece that was the residence of the doges and seat of the Venetian government. This building, with its elaborate decorations and sumptuous interiors, testifies to the political power and artistic refinement of the Republic of Venice. The palace was the political heart of the city for centuries, hosting the Great Council and the Senate chambers. Its prisons, including the infamous Piombi cell, were places of detention for many illustrious prisoners, including Giacomo Casanova. Another point of interest in the square is the Clock Tower, built between 1496 and 1499. This Renaissance tower is famous for its astronomical clock, which not only marks the hours but also the lunar phases and zodiac signs. During Epiphany and Ascension, a mechanical procession of the Magi emerges from the tower, attracting the attention of visitors and locals. The Procuratie, which surround three sides of the square, are elegant arcaded buildings that housed the offices of the procurators of San Marco, high officials of the Republic. The Procuratie Vecchie, on the north side of the square, were built in the 12th century, while the Procuratie Nuove, on the south side, were completed in the 17th century. These buildings now house historic cafes like Caffè Florian, opened in 1720 and frequented by illustrious figures such as Goethe, Byron, and Marcel Proust. At the center of the square are three tall bronze flagpoles, whose bases were decorated in 1505 by Alessandro Leopardi. These poles once flew the flags of the Republic of Venice and now support the flags of Italy and the European Union. Piazza San Marco is not only a place of extraordinary architectural beauty, but also a lively and vibrant space, a theater for public and private events. During Carnival, the square transforms into an open-air stage, where elaborate masks and historical costumes create an unforgettable spectacle. But Piazza San Marco is also where the city faces the challenge of high water. Being the lowest area of Venice, it is the first to be flooded during exceptional tides. At these times, walkways are installed to allow pedestrians to cross the square without getting wet. Among the many who have loved and depicted Piazza San Marco, the Impressionist painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir captured its vibrancy in a famous painting created during a visit to Venice in 1881. This painting, now housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, reflects the beauty and energy of the square through the use of vibrant colors and quick brushstrokes.