Venice - Day 3
A Day that Starts and Ends in St. Mark’s Square
November 17, 2023
I started the day early to enjoy St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) before the arrival of tours and day-trippers. While Venice is known for its crowds, the square felt refreshingly calm, allowing me to fully appreciate its beauty and history.
Basilica di San Marco: A Golden Masterpiece
One of the highlights of the day was visiting the iconic St. Mark’s Basilica, the third church built on this historic site, dating back to 1063. What stood out most was the extensive use of gold, from the gleaming domes to the intricate altar pieces, creating a sense of grandeur and opulence.
The mosaics inside the basilica were absolutely breathtaking, showcasing the artistry of Venetian craftsmen. A special highlight was seeing the original bronze horse statues displayed in the museum, which once guarded the basilica and remain a symbol of its rich history.
Bridge of Sighs: A Venetian Icon with a Haunting History
On my second full day in Venice, I admired the Bridge of Sighs from the outside, and the view was far more captivating than what I experienced from within the day before. The bridge, an architectural marvel, spans the Rio di Palazzo and connects the Doge’s Palace to the former prison.
Built in 1600, the Bridge of Sighs earned its name from the legend that prisoners would sigh as they caught their last glimpse of Venice’s beauty through its small windows before being led to their cells. Its elegant Baroque design contrasts with the somber purpose it served, making it a fascinating piece of Venetian history.
Seeing the bridge from the outside, with the backdrop of the city’s canals and historic architecture, made it easy to understand the bittersweet sighs of those prisoners centuries ago.
Campanile di San Marco: Venice’s Iconic Bell Tower with Stunning Views
The Campanile di San Marco, or St. Mark's Bell Tower, is one of Venice's most iconic landmarks and offers an experience unlike many other historic bell towers. Unlike the steep climbs I would encounter in Florence and other parts of Venice, this tower features a convenient elevator to the top, a luxury I came to appreciate even more in the days that followed.
Standing at over 98 meters (323 feet) tall, the Campanile di San Marco has been a symbol of Venice for centuries. Originally constructed in the 12th century and rebuilt after its collapse in 1902, the tower serves as both a historic treasure and a must-visit destination.
From the top, the panoramic views are absolutely breathtaking. You can take in the beauty of Venice’s intricate canals and red-tiled rooftops, the shimmering waters of the Lagoon, and even catch a glimpse of the distant Dolomite Mountains. It’s no wonder this bell tower remains a favorite for visitors exploring St. Mark’s Square.
Afternoon and Evening Wandering in Venice: Exploring Beyond St. Mark’s Square
With the day’s agenda complete, I decided to spend the afternoon wandering east of St. Mark’s Square, curious to see what hidden gems Venice had to offer. My stroll led me to discover more of the city’s enchanting canals, charming bridges, and stunning historic buildings, each one a reminder of Venice’s unique architectural beauty.
After a couple hours of exploring, I returned to my hotel for a brief rest before setting out again to prepare for the next day’s travel. I walked to the train station to familiarize myself with the route, ensuring a smooth departure in the morning. Along the way, I stopped by a local grocery store to pick up a few items before heading to dinner.
Dinner was a classic Venetian experience with authentic pizza, a treat that didn’t disappoint. While the flavors were delightful, I still stand by my love for Chicago-style pizza, which remains my favorite.
My evening ended with a final stroll through St. Mark's Square.
