Saint Mark's Basilica, Venice
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Saint Mark's Basilica - by Zairon, in the Public Domain
Description
St Mark's Basilica holds the relics of Saint Mark the Evangelist, the patron saint of Venice. Until the late 18th century it was a Ducal Chapel, essentially an extension of the adjoining Doge's Palace; thereafter it became the cathedral church of the city. There were three incarnations of the church, starting in the 9th century when the relics of Saint Mark were stolen from Alexandria and the current incarnation is from the 11th century although there weremany extensions and embellishments throughout the centuries, most notably to the Western Façade on Piazza San Marco. Many elements were spoils brought back from Constantinople during the Fourth Crusade (1202-1204), including the Quadriga (4 gold gilded horses sculptures) taken from the Hippodrome and installed on the main façade. Inside, highlights include the high altar retable and the various mosaics.
Access & Transport
The Basilica is located at the eastern end of Piazza San Marco. Vaporetto line 1 stops at San Marco, along the night line N and airport lines A and B. Many other lines (#2, 4, 5, 7, 14, 20) also stop at San Zaccaria piers, just past the Doge's Palace. For wheelchair users, there is ramp access at the Porta dei Fiori. There is lift access to the museum.
Instructions & Recommendations
This is a place of worship so visitors should dress conservatively. Worshippers can enter for free for prayers, Mass and Services from the Porta dei Fiori (Piazzetta dei Leoncini – North-Side). The Pala d'Oro (additional fees) is the high altar retable of the Basilica and is widely considered one of the most refined works of Byzantine enamel. More information here: http://www.basilicasanmarco.it/basilica/il-tesoro-e-la-pala-doro/la-pala-doro/?lang=en The Museum & Loggia dei Cavalli (Loggia of the Horses) contains Persian carpets, liturgical vestments, illuminated manuscripts and the "Quadriga Marciana", or four Horses of St. Mark. More information here: http://www.basilicasanmarco.it/basilica/museo-marciano/?lang=en
Environmental & Social
The ongoing environmental footprint is low, and the attraction helps maintain the city's artistic and architectural heritages
Conclusion
Striking when seen from Piazza San Marco, the church does not disappoint inside with mosaics covering the domes, apses and some floor sections as well. Pricing wise, some people do not like the idea of supplements, but we think that it is looking at it the wrong way around: better not have to pay full price if you are not interested in everything.
Key positive
Beautifully decorated interiors
Interesting architectural features
Central location
Key negative
Waiting time and crowded
A little dark inside
Suitability
No religious denomination restrictions and accessible for wheelchair users
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 20m
est. visit time:1h
Monday09:30 - 17:15
Tuesday09:30 - 17:15
Wednesday09:30 - 17:15
Thursday09:30 - 17:15
Friday09:30 - 17:15
Saturday09:30 - 17:15
Sunday14:00 - 17:15