The jewel in Venice’s crown is known as the “Church of Gold” for its gilded spires that tower over St Mark’s Square.
The golden spires of St Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco) mark their unique profile on the Venetian skyline from all angles. Known locally as the Chiesa d’Oro (Church of Gold), this spectacular Byzantine church is one of the most recognisable sights of central Venice.Approached across St Mark’s Square, the lavishly decorated façade makes an immediate impression with its ornate covering of sculptures and mosaics. The arches of the central doorway feature Romanesque carvings depicting Venetian trades and allegorical figures representing the signs of the zodiac. To the left of the portal, the mosaic “The Translation of the Body of St Mark” tells the remarkable story of the journey of the evangelist’s remains from Alexandria to Venice in 828.The oldest mosaics in the basilica, featuring Old Testament scenes, are to be found in the narthex (vestibule), which leads into the main part of the building, shaped like a Greek cross and covered in over 8,000 square metres of dazzling mosaics inlaid with 24-carat gold. Among the most impressive are depictions of the Apostles with the Madonna near to the main door, and the central dome’s breathtaking interpretation of the Ascension.Some of the basilica’s most important and interesting artefacts can be viewed in the treasury. Here you will find items looted from Constantinople by Venetian crusaders, as well as saintly relics including a lock of hair reputed to belong to the Virgin Mary. Behind the altar are the remains of St Mark the evangelist, alongside the priceless Pala d’Oro (Golden Altar Panel), studded with precious jewels and inlaid with images of the saints.St Mark’s Basilica is open every day with reduced hours on Sundays. Entry to the church is free but there is a small charge to view the treasury and some other parts of the building. Free guided tours are offered from April to October, excluding Sundays and national holidays.
