Saint Mark’s Basilica
📚What You Will Learn
- The daring theft of St. Mark’s relics and the basilica’s fiery origins.
- How Venetian trade with Byzantium shaped its unique design.
- Secrets behind its glittering mosaics and eclectic treasures.
📝Summary
ℹ️Quick Facts
- Construction of the current basilica began in 1063 and was consecrated in 1094.
- Over 4,000 square meters of gold mosaics, many from the 13th century.
- Inspired by Constantinople’s Church of the Holy Apostles with a Greek cross plan and five domes.
💡Key Takeaways
- Saint Mark’s shifted Venice’s patronage from St. Theodore to St. Mark, boosting the city’s prestige.
- Its architecture blends Byzantine roots with Gothic additions and spoils from the Fourth Crusade.
- Served as the Doge’s chapel until 1807, when it became Venice’s cathedral.
In 828, Venetian merchants boldly smuggled St. Mark the Evangelist’s relics from Alexandria, Egypt, hiding them in a pork barrel to evade Muslim guards. This act made St. Mark Venice’s patron saint, replacing St. Theodore, and prompted the first basilica’s construction in 829, consecrated in 832.
The original church burned in 976 during a revolt against Doge Pietro Candiano IV. Rebuilt under Doge Domenico Contarini, the current structure began in 1063, drawing inspiration from Constantinople’s Basilica of the Holy Apostles.
Saint Mark’s follows a Greek cross plan with five domes, each about 13 meters in diameter, topped with 16 windows and golden mosaics from 1160-1200 depicting Christ’s ascension. The design reflects Venice’s ties to the Byzantine Empire, blending Eastern opulence with local flair.
The western façade has five recessed portals flanked by looted columns from the Fourth Crusade, ornate arches, and Byzantine sculptures. Over centuries, Gothic arches, pinnacles, and marbles from the East created a stunning eclectic mix.
Inside, over 4,000 square meters of mosaics glitter across vaults and domes, many 13th-century works enlivening the Byzantine style. The central dome portrays Christ’s ascension, showcasing Venice’s Eastern trade links.
Spoils from Constantinople include the four bronze horses over the entrance, porphyry Tetrarchs, and 500 columns of rare marbles. These treasures symbolized Venice’s power until the Republic’s end in 1797.
Redesigned until 1617, the basilica served as the Doge’s private chapel and state shrine. In 1807, it became Venice’s cathedral under Napoleon.
Today, it remains a UNESCO highlight, drawing millions to marvel at its history amid ongoing restoration efforts. Its influence echoes in later works by Bramante and Michelangelo.
Enter via the Porta Sant'Alipio for a 13th-century mosaic view of the basilica itself. Book skip-the-line tours to avoid crowds and access the museum with the original bronze horses.
Dress modestly; no large bags. Mosaics shine brightest in morning light—arrive early!
⚠️Things to Note
- The façade features five portals with looted columns and the iconic St. Mark’s Lion.
- Relics of St. Mark were miraculously rediscovered after a 976 fire.
- Bronze horses above the entrance were plundered from Constantinople.