St Mark’s Basilica: Tickets

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St. Mark’s Basilica FAQ’s

• When is the best time to visit St. Mark’s Basilica?
• We would suggest early in the morning or later in the afternoon, where possible. You are never going to be able to avoid the crowds as its one of Venice’s most popular tourist attractions, but early in the morning or later afternoon can be slightly quieter.
• Do I need to book tickets in advance for St. Mark’s Basilica?
• We would always suggest booking tickets in advance to visit St. Mark’s Basilica. This helps you avoid the queues and avoids disappointment. Long queues are very common, especially during the peak summer months.
• What is the Pala d’Oro at St. Mark’s Basilica?
• The Pala d’Oro is a must see in our opinion. It’s the incredible golden altar which is decorated with precious stones.
• What is St. Mark's Basilica?
• St. Mark's Basilica, or ‘Basilica di San Marco’, is a cathedral and major tourist attraction in Venice, which is famous for its Italo-Byzantine architecture, golden mosaics, and its significance as a symbol of Venetian wealth and power.
• When was St. Mark's Basilica built?
• The original structure was completed in 832 AD but it was rebuilt in 1063 after a fire. The current basilica was consecrated in 1094.
• Why is it called St. Mark's Basilica?
• It is named after ‘Saint Mark’ the Evangelist, whose relics were brought to Venice from Alexandria in 828 AD. The basilica was built to house and honour the relics.
• What are the mosaics in St. Mark's Basilica made of?
• The mosaics are made of tesserae, which are tiny pieces of glass, gold leaf, and stones which create vibrant and intricate designs.
• Can you climb St. Mark’s Basilica?
• Yes, you can climb to the ‘Loggia dei Cavalli’, which offers great views of St. Mark’s Square and the city.
• Why are the Horses of St. Mark significant?
• The Horses of St. Mark are ancient bronze statues that once covered Constantinople's Hippodrome. They were brought to Venice in the 13th century and symbolise Venice's power and connection to Byzantium.

St Mark’s Basilica Venice Fun Facts

• "Golden Church": The basilica is nicknamed "Chiesa d'Oro" (Golden Church) because of its opulent golden mosaics covering over 8,000 square metres.
• Stolen Relics: The relics of St. Mark were smuggled from Alexandria by Venetian merchants in a barrel of pork to evade Muslim inspectors!
• Byzantine Influence: Many of the basilica's treasures were looted from Constantinople during the Fourth Crusade in 1204.
• Horses' Journey: The famous Horses of St. Mark have travelled extensively! Napoleon took them to Paris in 1797 before they were returned to Venice in 1815.
• Hidden Dome: The basilica has five domes, but from the ground inside, only parts of them are visible due to the design of the interiors.
• Real Gold Mosaics: The gold mosaics are made by sandwiching gold leaf between layers of glass.
• Tomb of St. Mark: St. Mark's remains are interred in the crypt, which is often flooded due to Venice's acqua alta (high tide) phenomenon!
• ‍Symbolism Everywhere: The architecture, mosaics, and artworks are filled with Christian symbolism, depicting biblical stories and saints to educate and inspire worshippers.