Some iconic places are photographed by everyone but truly understood by few. Piazza San Marco is one of them. The historical, political and spiritual heart of Venice, it holds centuries of transformations, symbols, legends and hidden details that still amaze those who take the time to look carefully.
Piazza San Marco and Its Evolution Through the Centuries
The origin of Piazza San Marco dates back to the 9th century, when it was just a green area crossed by small canals and vegetable gardens. It was Doge Sebastiano Ziani in the 12th century who transformed it into a large urban space by filling in the Rio Batario and purchasing land from the nuns of San Zaccaria. This gave birth to the square that would become the beating heart of the Serenissima.
Napoleon called it “the most elegant drawing room in Europe“, and the name still fits perfectly today. The square has seen many changes: from the creation of the Royal Gardens, to the collapse and reconstruction of the St. Mark’s Bell Tower in 1902, every century has left its mark. And even today, among tourists and historic cafés, you can still feel the grandeur of the past.
Symbols, Hidden Details and Little-Known Stories
Piazza San Marco is not only about architectural beauty it’s a treasure trove of symbolism and curiosities often overlooked. The two granite columns facing the lagoon are what’s left of an original group of three. One was lost at sea during transportation. Public executions were once held between the remaining two, which is why locals still avoid walking between them.
The St. Mark’s Bell Tower, standing at 99 meters, hides its own story. After collapsing in 1902, it was rebuilt “as it was, where it was“. The famous Horses of St. Mark, too, are replicas. The originals, looted from Constantinople, are kept inside the Basilica museum.
Among the most fascinating hidden details:
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Forgotten engravings beneath the Procuratie
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The red marble lions of Piazzetta dei Leoncini, where Venetian children have played for generations
The Clock Tower also holds a place in local legend: it’s said that the architects who built its intricate mechanism were blinded afterwards so they could never replicate it elsewhere.
Experiencing Piazza San Marco Today
Today, Piazza San Marco is one of the most visited places in the world, yet it still offers moments of authenticity. The silence at dawn, the golden light brushing the Basilica’s domes, or the reflection of lamplight on the high water at night each visit is unique.
To fully experience the square:
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Climb the Bell Tower for a stunning view over the lagoon
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Visit the Correr Museum to dive into Venetian history
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Witness the Angel’s Flight during the Carnival festivities
Getting to Piazza San Marco is easy: from Marco Polo and Treviso airports, ATVO express buses take you directly to the city center quickly and comfortably. From Piazzale Roma, it’s just a short vaporetto ride to reach Venice’s heart. Read more on our articles to discover new place and travel tips.
