Venice

Once the core of the mighty Roman Empire, and the cradle of the Renaissance, it is also home to the greatest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world, including high art and monuments. Italy is famous for its delicious cuisine, it's trendy fashions, luxury sports cars and motorcycles, diverse regional cultures and dialects, as well as for its various sceneries from the seas to the Alps and Apennines, all reasons why it got nickcoded Il Bel Paese (the Beautiful Country). One of the great things about Italy is that its long thin shape means that when you get fed up with sightseeing you are often a relatively short distance from a beach. In many of the more popular areas, large sections of beach are reserved as paid beaches. Italy is full of differents cultures you can see: Etruscan Italy, The Greek influence, Roman ruins, Christian Italy, The Byzantine cities and The Renaissance.

Italy

It is the birthplace of the architect Palladio, father of the architectural style that bears his name and that flourished throughout Renaissance Europe. It was here, too, that the Florentine Dante Alighieri spent most of his life and where he died after having written the Divine Comedy, the Renaissance masterpiece that is the founding text of the Italian language. Visitors will be regaled with opportunities to relax in the region's many thermal baths. Its landscapes are very diverse: from the Dolomites one can travel from the mountains down through hills and plains, to end at the lagoons of the Adriatic Sea. Its climate has made it possible to cultivate vineyards such as those at Valpolicella.

Veneto

Along with the baroque beauty of the **Piazza del Duomo in Lecce**, the scandalous **Piazza Pretoria in Palermo**, the hidden **Piazza della Cisterna in San Gimignano**, and the renaissance one called **Piazza Del Popolo, Ascoli Piceno**, I would like to present to you, probably one of the most famous piazzas in Italy, the **Piazza San Marco in Venice.**

Napoleon said that this spot was the "**painter’s atelier of Europe**" and today it’s one of the *most crowded city spots and the only* **piazza in Venice** - *since in this case, the other public spaces are called Campos.* Besides the tourists, the piazza is a very frequently visited place by the pigeons, and in fact a common/representative scene is a guy in the middle of it feeding the birds. The square **dates back to the 9th century,** when it was formed as a small area around **the Basilica San Marco**. It **was expanded during the year 1177** and nowadays it forms an area with a length of 176 m and a width between 62 m and 82 m.

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### Exploring the Majestic Campanile di San Marco in Venezia

If you've ever dreamt of visiting Venice, one iconic landmark that you simply cannot miss is the Campanile di San Marco. Standing tall at 98.6 meters (323 ft), this bell tower is not only the tallest structure in Venice but also one of the most recognizable symbols of the city.

### Historical Significance

The Campanile di San Marco has a rich history that dates back to the early tenth century. Initially built as a watchtower to protect the city from approaching ships, it also served as a landmark to guide Venetian ships safely into the harbor. Over the centuries, the tower underwent several reconstructions and additions, with the current campanile being a reconstruction completed in 1912 after the collapse of the previous tower in 1902.

### Architectural Marvel

As you approach St Mark's Square, the Campanile di San Marco stands proudly, commanding attention with its simple yet elegant form. The tower features a square brick shaft, 12 meters (39 ft) wide on each side and 50 meters (160 ft) tall. At the top of the belfry, you'll find an attic adorned with effigies of the Lion of St Mark and allegorical figures of Venice as Justice. The tower is crowned by a pyramidal spire, culminating in a golden weather vane in the form of the archangel Gabriel.

### Fun Facts and Things to Do

Did you know that the bells of the Campanile di San Marco historically regulated the civic and religious life of Venice? They marked the beginning, pauses, and end of the workday, convocations of government assemblies, and even public executions. Today, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of Venice from the top of the tower. The climb may be a bit challenging, but the reward is well worth it.

While you're in St Mark's Square, take the opportunity to explore other nearby attractions. Visit the magnificent St Mark's Basilica, a stunning example of Byzantine architecture, and marvel at its intricate mosaics. Don't forget to stroll along the bustling waterfront promenade, where you can admire the gondolas gliding through the canals and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Venice.

### When to Visit

The Campanile di San Marco is open to visitors throughout the year, but it's always a good idea to check the opening hours before planning your visit. To avoid long queues, it's best to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Keep in mind that the tower may be closed during adverse weather conditions, so it's advisable to check the weather forecast before heading out.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply seeking breathtaking views of Venice, the Campanile di San Marco is a must-visit attraction. So, make sure to include it in your itinerary and create unforgettable memories in the enchanting city of Venice.

Campanile di San Marco

The most dominant buildings that surround the square are the **Palazzo ducale, the church of San Marco, the Torre dell'orologio, the St Mark's Campanile and the Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana.**

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The **Palazzo Ducale's row of columns **that is facing the library has two different pink-colored columns among all the whites. This was the place from where the doge used to announce the death sentences. It is believed that walking between these two columns can bring you bad luck.

### Exploring the Magnificent Basilica Cattedrale Patriarcale di San Marco in Venezia

If you're planning a trip to Venice, one place you absolutely cannot miss is the Basilica Cattedrale Patriarcale di San Marco, also known as St. Mark's Basilica. This iconic cathedral is not only a symbol of Venetian wealth and power but also a masterpiece of Italo-Byzantine architecture. Let's dive into the captivating history, architectural features, and things to do at this magnificent site.

### Historical Significance and Fun Facts

St. Mark's Basilica has a rich history that dates back to the 9th century. Legend has it that the relics of Saint Mark the Evangelist were brought to Venice from Alexandria, Egypt, in 828/829. The basilica was built to house these precious relics and became the city's cathedral in 1807.

One fascinating fact about St. Mark's Basilica is that it was originally the chapel of the Doge, the ruler of Venice. Over time, it evolved into a grand cathedral and a symbol of Venetian pride. Its opulent design and gold ground mosaics earned it the nickname "Chiesa d'Oro" or "Church of Gold."

### Architectural Marvels

As you approach St. Mark's Basilica, you'll be captivated by its stunning façade. The architecture is a blend of Byzantine, Romanesque, and Gothic styles, showcasing the influence of different eras. The exterior is adorned with intricate marble columns, sculptures, and reliefs, many of which were brought from Constantinople during the Fourth Crusade.

Step inside, and you'll be greeted by a breathtaking interior. The domes, vaults, and upper walls are covered in shimmering gold-ground mosaics, depicting saints, prophets, and biblical scenes. These mosaics span eight centuries and showcase various artistic styles, from traditional Byzantine to Renaissance influences.

### Things to Do and See

Visiting St. Mark's Basilica is an immersive experience that allows you to explore its rich history and architectural wonders. Take a guided tour to learn about the basilica's significance and the stories behind its stunning mosaics. Marvel at the Pala d'Oro, a magnificent altarpiece adorned with precious gems and enamel.

Don't forget to climb up to the terrace for a panoramic view of St. Mark's Square and the city of Venice. From here, you can admire the intricate details of the basilica's exterior and enjoy a bird's-eye view of the bustling square below.

### When to Visit

To make the most of your visit to St. Mark's Basilica, it's important to plan your trip wisely. The basilica can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.

Keep in mind that St. Mark's Basilica is a religious site, so appropriate attire is required. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and hats should be removed inside the basilica.

### Conclusion

St. Mark's Basilica is a true gem of Venice, showcasing the city's rich history, architectural brilliance, and religious significance. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a memorable experience, a visit to this magnificent cathedral is a must. Immerse yourself in the opulence of the Chiesa d'Oro and discover the stories behind its golden mosaics. Plan your visit wisely, and prepare to be awe-struck by the grandeur of St. Mark's Basilica.

Basilica Cattedrale Patriarcale di San Marco

The first “version” of the **church of San Marco** was neither decorated, nor painted. Today's look was reached at the early** 17th century** and it took less than two centuries for this object to be used as a cathedral church. The object has been also often referred to as a *"golden church".*

**In 2017,** you could get something like a limited edition of the *2 euro coin with the San Marco basilica on it.* This was in the name of the *400th anniversary* of the completion of the church. 1,5 million coins have been distributed. 

Even if you are trying to avoid highly touristic places, -as this one is one of those- don't miss out on visiting one of the most beautiful places on earth. Think..there is obviously a reason why it is so popular.

**Cover picture: Canaletto's painting of 1723**

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Piazzas in Italy: Piazza san Marco, Venice

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I am Zlata and I am a young architect that is living in the Balkan peninsula. I am passionate about cities and how they function, about how people are influencing architecture and vice versa and how places are changing our lives.

Piazzas in Italy: Piazza san Marco, Venice

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