Unique architectural style
• Byzantine style: St. Mark's Basilica is based on the Byzantine style and has five large round roofs. The church is in the shape of a Greek cross and covered with five hemispherical domes, which is a typical Byzantine architectural feature.
• Fusion of multiple styles: In the subsequent development, it has also integrated Gothic, Islamic, Renaissance and other styles. Gothic decorations such as pointed arches and Renaissance decorations such as railings make it a comprehensive art masterpiece that integrates various schools.
Exquisite decorative art
• Mosaic mosaics: There are more than 8,000 square meters of mosaics inside and outside the church, from floors, walls to ceilings. The themes include the preaching of the twelve apostles, the suffering of Christ, Christ and the prophets, and portraits of saints. The pictures are covered with a layer of glittering gold foil, making the whole church shrouded in golden light.
• Marble mosaic floor: Following the design principles of Byzantine churches, the floor is inlaid with more than 2,099 square meters of marble, with exquisite geometric patterns and natural patterns such as animals and flowers, showing the superb craftsmanship of Venice.
Precious historical relics
• Horses of St. Mark: The four bronze horse replicas on the balcony above the main entrance are the famous "Horses of St. Mark", and the originals are kept in the Marcia Museum inside the cathedral. These four bronze horse statues from the ancient Roman period may have come from Greece as early as the spoils of the Fourth Crusade.
• Statue of the Emperor: There is a statue of four emperors carved from purple porphyry in the southeast corner of the cathedral. It is a relic of the late ancient Rome, showing the four emperors who jointly ruled the Roman Empire. It was brought back from Constantinople and is a symbol of the glorious history of the Venetian Empire.
• The Virgin of Nicopia: This is a Byzantine icon, estimated to have been created between the 6th and 7th centuries. It was originally enshrined in the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople. It was brought to Venice after the Fourth Crusade and is considered to have magical powers. It is the patron saint of the Republic of Venice.
Important religious facilities
• Golden Altar Screen: Above the main altar is the world-famous "Golden Altar Screen", made of pure gold and gems, inlaid with more than 1,300 gems and pearls, showing the image of Jesus Christ and the saints. It is a masterpiece of medieval goldsmithing.
• Ascension Dome: Located in the center of the cathedral, it depicts the scene of Jesus Christ ascending to heaven forty days after his resurrection. It was completed by many outstanding Venetian craftsmen in the 13th century. The center of the dome is the image of Jesus ascending to heaven by angels.
St. Mark's Square
雏菊旅行
Piazza San Marco is located in Venice, Italy, and is one of the most famous squares in the world.
I. Historical Background
1. It was built in the 9th century AD and was originally just an open space in front of St. Mark's Basilica.
2. With the prosperity of Venice, the square was gradually expanded and decorated, becoming a political, religious and commercial center.
II. Architectural Features
1. St. Mark's Basilica
- The core building of the square, integrating various architectural styles such as Byzantine and Gothic.
- The front of the church is decorated with gorgeous marble reliefs and mosaics, showing biblical stories and the history of Venice.
- Five large domes and numerous spires make the church majestic.
2. Doge's Palace
- Next to St. Mark's Basilica, it was the seat of government during the Republic of Venice.
- The architectural style is unique, mainly white and pink marble, decorated with exquisite sculptures and colonnades.
- There are many gorgeous rooms and halls inside, showing the art and culture of Venice.
3. Bell Tower
- The landmark building on the square, up to 98.6 meters high.
- It was first built in the 12th century and has been rebuilt and restored many times.
- Visitors can take the elevator to the bell tower and overlook the beautiful scenery of Venice.
4. Colonnade
- The square is surrounded by colonnades, providing tourists with shade and a place to rest.
- The colonnade is decorated with many sculptures and reliefs, showing the history and culture of Venice.
III. Cultural significance
1. Religious center
- St. Mark's Square is the religious center of Venice, and St. Mark's Basilica is the seat of the Archbishop of Venice.
- Many important religious ceremonies and activities are held here.
2. Art treasure house
- The buildings and sculptures on the square are all art treasures, showing the artistic achievements of Venice.
- The mosaics of St. Mark's Basilica and the murals of the Doge's Palace are world-famous works of art.
3. Tourist attraction
- St. Mark's Square is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Venice, attracting millions of tourists every year.
- The cafes and restaurants on the square are also a good place for tourists to relax and taste delicious food.
IV. Events and Celebrations
1. Venice Carnival
- Held every February, it is one of the most famous carnivals in the world.
- Piazza San Marco is the main venue for the carnival, where people wear gorgeous costumes and masks, and hold parades, performances and dances in the square.
2. Feast of San Marco
- Held on April 25 every year, it is an important festival in Venice.
- People will hold grand celebrations in Piazza San Marco, including religious ceremonies, parades and fireworks displays.
Gondola Ride
Alaine08
Our experience in Venice was unforgettable, thanks to the perfect combination of a serene gondola ride and an insightful walking tour. The gondola ride was peaceful and gave us a unique view of the canals, while our guide was fantastic—knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging. We learned so much about the city's history and hidden gems as we walked through its charming streets. A truly memorable way to experience Venice from both the water and the land. Highly recommend this experience for anyone visiting!
Doge's Palace
M38***99
It's worth going, but the ticket is a combination ticket, which is a bit of a rip-off. I only went to one of the other museums, which was not as interesting as this one. The square is worth seeing, and the interior is a bit like Versailles? Most of the themes are eulogies, borrowing ancient myths, religions, or historical facts.
St Mark's Campanile
zinnia_615
St Mark's Campanile is definitely one of the most worthwhile attractions in Venice! This 16th-century bell tower rises high into the sky, with an angel statue on top. It is a landmark building in Venice.
P Address
P.za San Marco, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
•Excellent view
Climbing the bell tower, you can have a 360-degree view of the entire Venice water city, red roofs, winding canals, and islands in the distance... The beautiful scenery is in full view! It is absolutely great for taking photos and checking in
Bridge of Sighs
雏菊旅行
The Bridge of Sighs is a bridge with unique charm and historical significance.
1. Geographical location
The Bridge of Sighs is located in Venice, Italy. It connects the Duke's Palace and the prison in Venice and spans the Palace River.
2. Architectural features
1. Exterior design
- The Bridge of Sighs is a Baroque-style bridge with exquisite shape. The bridge is closed, covered with a dome on the upper part, and white marble railings on both sides of the bridge.
- Its unique closed structure adds a mysterious and oppressive atmosphere.
2. Building materials
- It is mainly built of white marble and limestone, which is sturdy and durable, and still stands after years of baptism.
3. Origin of the name
It is named because the death row prisoners often sighed when they passed this airtight bridge when they were taken to the execution ground.
4. Historical and cultural value
1. Historical witness
- The Bridge of Sighs witnessed the historical changes of Venice, including the development of politics, law and society. It is a symbol of the judicial system during the Republic of Venice.
2. Literary and artistic inspiration
- The Bridge of Sighs has appeared in many literary works and artistic creations. It has inspired countless writers, poets and artists and has become a symbol of romance and mystery.
- For example, the British poet Byron vividly described the Bridge of Sighs in his works, making the bridge more famous.
V. Tourism significance
1. Unique landscape
- Today, the Bridge of Sighs is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Venice. Visitors can take a gondola under the bridge and enjoy the beautiful appearance of the bridge and the surrounding scenery.
2. Romantic legend
- Legend has it that if a couple kisses under the Bridge of Sighs, their love will last forever. This romantic legend has attracted many couples to check in, adding to the romantic atmosphere of the Bridge of Sighs.
Piazza dei Signori
M24***21
The Gentleman's Square covers a small square, mostly tourists rest here, very typical European square.
Other Recommended Cities
Rome
Venice
Milan
Florence
Popular Types of Attractions in Giavera del Montello