St Mark’s Basilica

St Mark's Basilica

A major and contemplative stop on the Venice audio-guided tour, St Mark's Basilica is the most important religious building in the city. The city of the doges, in search of prestige, aspired to house a relic worthy of its ambitions.

The relics of Saint Mark

In 828, two Venetian merchants brought back from Alexandria the body of the evangelist Saint Mark, hidden under pork carcasses to evade the searches. As no church was worthy enough, the first church of Saint Mark was raised around 830. Destroyed by a fire in 976, a second was consecrated in 978, serving as the private chapel of the doges.

What to see

The present basilica dazzles with its domes, its golden mosaics and its blend of Byzantine and Eastern influences, the fruit of centuries of enrichment. Enter this place of worship with quiet and respect, in suitable dress, to admire its splendour and contemplation.

Practical information

St Mark's Basilica stands on St Mark's Square, in the heart of Venice. Like any place of worship, it is visited in covering dress and with respect for silence; days, hours and access conditions should be checked depending on the season.

What relic does St Mark's Basilica hold ?

The body of the evangelist Saint Mark, brought from Alexandria by two Venetian merchants in 828.

What style characterises the basilica ?

A blend of Byzantine and Eastern influences, with its domes and golden mosaics.