St Mark’s Basilica has been the main church in Venice for almost 1,000 years. Originally built as the private chapel of the Doge during the Venice Republic, construction began in 828 and ended in 832. The basilica was then made to house St. Mark the Apostle’s body, brought from Alexandria. He was named as the protector of the city. Construction of the present Basilica was completed in 1071. Its original name was “Basilica d’Oro”, translating to Golden Basilica, because of the numerous square meters worth of golden mosaic tiles contained here.
The church served as the Doge’s chapel until 1807, when Napoleon turned it into a public basilica.
The 323-foot campanile of St. Mark’s is also renowned. Dating back to the 9th century, it had to be rebuilt in 1903 after collapsing.
St. Mark’s Basilica is one of the most-visited sights in Venice, it is a must-see on your itinerary! This is one of the best things to do in Venice, click here for more things to do.
You can go to St. Mark’s Museum. The museum illustrates the Basilica’s history, housing objects of various kinds and origins that belong to the church. You will even find illuminated manuscripts with the texts of St. Mark liturgies. The museum opens from 9:45 am- 5:45pm.
Also try the street-side restaurants located around the Basilica. There are many places to stop and have a meal, but you may probably want to reserve a table just incase.
The Basilica is located on the eastern end of Saint Mark’s Square. Get here by the water-bus lines 1, 51 and 2.
