St Mark's Basilica stands at the eastern end of Saint Mark's Square in Venice, Italy. It began as the chapel of the Doge and is now the cathedral church of the Patriarchate of Venice. The present building was begun around 1063 and holds the relics of Saint Mark the Evangelist, the city's patron saint.
Why it is worth the trip
Outside, rare marbles, columns and sculptures carried home from Constantinople cover the brick walls, and four ancient bronze horses stand above the main entrance. Step inside and your eyes are pulled upward to domes, vaults and upper walls covered in gold-ground mosaics of biblical scenes, saints and prophets. Because these mosaics were retouched or remade over eight centuries, you can trace Byzantine tradition giving way to designs based on sketches by Titian, Tintoretto and Veronese. The shift from heavy marble outside to shimmering gold within is the feeling people remember, along with the sense of a thousand years of Venetian pride.
The best time to go
Go early in the day, when the square and the interior are quieter and you can look at the mosaics without being hurried. Daylight is what makes the gold surfaces glow, so pick a clear day and give your eyes time to adjust to the interior. Venice is always easier to enjoy outside the busiest holiday periods.
How long to allow
Allow several hours to take in the interior mosaics, the crypt and the carved details of the exterior, including the bronze horses at the entrance.
Getting there
The basilica stands on Saint Mark's Square in the historic centre of Venice, and the best way to reach it is on foot through the city's streets.
What to book ahead
Check ahead for entry arrangements and any reservation options, as a popular church like this often has queues. Booking in advance where possible saves time on busy days.
Nearby
The Doge's Palace is right beside the basilica, and the Campanile di San Marco rises on the same square. The Chiesa di San Vidal is also close by.