St. Mark's Square

St. Mark's Square

　 Introduction St. Mark's Square, also known as the central square of Venice, has always been the public hub for political, religious, and traditional festival events in Venice. It was called "the most beautiful drawing room in Europe" by Napoleon.

The east side of St. Mark's Square features St. Mark's Basilica and the campanile, while the west side houses the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Library. The square is home to tens of thousands of pigeons and musical bands, and occasionally you’ll see jesters in elaborate masks walking by. The dock by the square is called the Piazzetta, where two tall columns stand—one adorned with the winged lion, symbol of Venice, and the other decorated with a statue of Theodore, the protector saint of Byzantium.

Every year between February and March, the grand Venetian Carnival turns St. Mark's Square into a massive masquerade ball, where people wear masks and eccentric costumes, concealing their identities and indulging in unrestrained joy. Dining / Accommodation / Shopping The area offers a variety of boutique shops, including those selling gold jewelry, glassware, bedding, clothing, and more. Though the stores may be small, their window displays are top-notch, providing great visual enjoyment. There are also many stylish cafes, bars, and restaurants, making it one of the best areas for exploring Venice on foot. Transportation Take water bus line 1 and get off at the VALLARESSO or S.ZACCARIA stops. Tickets / Opening Hours The ticket for the campanile is €6.

Venice, Italy