St. Mark's Square

Overview

St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco) is the monumental heart of Venice, the only piazza in a city of campi. Flanked by the Basilica, the Campanile, the Doge's Palace, and the Procuratie arcades, Napoleon called it 'the drawing room of Europe.'

Highlights

• Caffè Florian: Founded in 1720, the oldest café in the world still in operation, with live orchestra music.
• The Clock Tower (Torre dell'Orologio): A Renaissance clocktower with two bronze Moors striking the hours and an astronomical dial.
• Acqua Alta: During high tides, the square floods and raised walkways appear, creating surreal reflections.

History

The square took its current form in the 12th century when the canal in front of the Basilica was paved over. The Procuratie Vecchie (north) and Nuove (south) were built in the 16th–17th centuries. Napoleon demolished a church to add the western wing.

Visitor Tips

• Avoid Peak Hours: The square is most magical at dawn or after 9 PM when day-trippers have gone.
• Expensive Cafés: Sitting at Florian or Quadri includes a music surcharge; stand at the bar to save.
• Duration: 30–60 minutes.