St Mark’s Basilica, or Basilica di San Marco in Italian, is one of the most famous landmarks in Venice, Italy. It is a magnificent example of Byzantine architecture and is renowned for its intricate mosaics, ornate gold decorations, and stunning domes. The basilica is a must-visit for any traveler to Venice, but planning a visit can be confusing with so many different ticket options available. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the history and architecture of St Mark’s Basilica and help you choose the right tickets for your visit.
History of St Mark’s Basilica
The history of St Mark’s Basilica is closely intertwined with the history of Venice itself. The basilica was originally built as the private chapel of the Doge, or ruler, of Venice in the 9th century. At the time, Venice was a major trading hub and had close connections with the Byzantine Empire. The Doge wanted a grand church that would rival the great churches of Constantinople and show off the wealth and power of Venice.
The original church was destroyed by a fire in 976 and was rebuilt in its current form in the 11th century. The church was consecrated in 1094, and over the centuries, it was continually embellished and expanded. Many of the mosaics and other decorations that visitors see today date back to the 12th and 13th centuries.
Throughout its history, St Mark’s Basilica has been the site of many important events in the history of Venice. It has been the location of numerous coronations of Venetian Doges and was also used as a meeting place for the Venetian government. During the 19th century, when Venice was under Austrian rule, St Mark’s Basilica was used as a Roman Catholic church and remained so even after Venice became part of Italy in 1866.
Architecture of St Mark’s Basilica
A stunning example of Byzantine architecture is St Mark’s Basilica, which developed in the Eastern Roman Empire during the 5th and 6th centuries. Byzantine architecture is characterized by its use of domes, intricate mosaics, and ornate decorations.
The exterior of St Mark’s Basilica is adorned with many beautiful features. The most notable of these are the five large domes that sit atop the church. The central dome is the largest and is supported by four smaller domes. The domes are covered in gleaming gold tiles, which catch the light beautifully and make the church a striking sight against the blue skies of Venice.
The façade of the basilica is also adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The lower levels of the façade are decorated with marble panels and columns, while the upper levels are covered in mosaics depicting scenes from the life of Christ and other religious figures.
Inside St Mark’s Basilica
The interior of St Mark’s Basilica is just as breathtaking as the exterior. Visitors are immediately struck by the intricate mosaics that cover the walls and ceilings of the church. The mosaics are made up of tiny glass tiles in a range of colors and depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of various saints.
One of the most famous features of the interior is the Pala d’Oro, a magnificent altarpiece made of gold, enamel, and precious stones. The Pala d’Oro is said to be one of the most valuable and important pieces of religious art in the world.
Visitors can also explore the Treasury, which contains many priceless religious relics and artifacts, including beautiful chalices, candelabras, and reliquaries.
It’s important to note that visitors to St Mark’s Basilica must dress appropriately, as it is a religious site. Both men and women must cover their shoulders and knees, and hats or other head coverings must be removed inside the church.
Another highlight of a visit to St Mark’s Basilica is the climb to the roof terrace. This allows visitors to get a close-up look at the intricate mosaics on the façade of the basilica and to enjoy stunning views of Venice from above. The climb is not for the faint of heart, however, as it involves ascending narrow staircases and steep steps.
Outside St Mark’s Basilica
Visitors to St Mark’s Basilica should also take some time to explore the surrounding area, as there are many other interesting sights and attractions nearby. One of the most famous is the Doge’s Palace, which was the residence of the Venetian Doges and is now a museum. The palace is located just next to St Mark’s Basilica and is an excellent example of Venetian Gothic architecture.
Another must-see attraction in the area is the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the Doge’s Palace to the nearby prison. The bridge is so named because it was said that prisoners would sigh as they crossed it, knowing that they were leaving behind their old lives and entering a new, uncertain future.
Finally, visitors should also take some time to explore the nearby canals and alleys, as this is where the true charm of Venice can be found. There are many hidden squares, picturesque bridges, and quaint shops and cafes to discover, and getting lost in the winding streets is all part of the fun.
St Mark’s Basilica Tickets
There are several different ticket options available for visitors to St Mark’s Basilica. The most basic option is a free ticket that allows visitors to enter the church and see the mosaics, altarpiece, and other treasures. However, this ticket does not include access to the Treasury, the roof terrace, or the museum.
For those who want to see more of the basilica, there are several paid ticket options available. The “St Mark’s Treasure” ticket includes access to the Treasury and costs €3.50. The “Terrace and Museum” ticket includes access to the roof terrace and the museum and costs €5.00.
For those who want to see everything that St Mark’s Basilica has to offer, the “Complete Tour” ticket is the best option. This ticket includes access to the church, the Treasury, the roof terrace, and the museum, and costs €7.00. There are also guided tours available for an additional fee, which can provide a more in-depth experience and help visitors to fully appreciate the history and architecture of the basilica.
It’s important to note that St Mark’s Basilica can be very busy, especially during peak tourist season. To avoid long lines and crowds, it’s a good idea to book tickets in advance and to arrive early in the day. Visitors should also be prepared for security checks, as bags and other items are not allowed inside the church.
In conclusion, a visit to St Mark’s Basilica is an absolute must for any traveler to Venice. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful decorations, it is truly one of the jewels of the city. By choosing the right tickets and planning ahead, visitors can make the most of their experience and fully appreciate all that St Mark’s Basilica has to offer.
