What is it and why is it famous?
The Basilica San Marco is Venice’s most popular site, and one of the most visited Catholic cathedrals in the world. Tourists flock here no matter their religion,.perhaps the world’s most visited Catholic cathedral after St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel in Rome. Famous for its lavish Italo-Byzantine design, it boasts a 10.000 square-feet patchwork of bright mosaics.
Is it worth visiting?
The architecture is mesmerizing, and stepping inside is like walking through a museum. There are five domes combining to create a Latin cross design, regal spires, arches and golden façades. First built in the 11th century, it features the famous Pala d’Oro altarpiece and intricate carvings. On the front balcony, above the portal, four bronze horses (now replicas of the originals), brought from Constantinople during the Crusades look over Piazza San Marco.
Do you need tickets for Basilica San Marco?
The basilica is free to visit year-round, seven days a week, and you can attend mass. To avoid queues, there are guided tours, skip the line tickets and more with optional audio guide.
Where should I eat nearby?
Osteria n.1, tucked in an alley behind the basilica, serves typical seafood specialties in an elegant setting.
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