What to see inside the St. Mark’s Basilica

St. Mark's Basilica inside is a feast for the eyes, with every inch of its walls and ceilings adorned with intricate mosaics, frescoes, and sculptures. As soon as visitors step through the doors of the basilica, they are transported into a world of opulence and beauty. One of the most striking features inside St. Mark's Basilica is the golden mosaics that cover the ceilings and walls. These mosaics depict scenes from the Bible, as well as portraits of various saints and religious figures. The colors and details in these mosaics are breathtaking, and visitors will find themselves staring up in awe at the intricate designs.


Another must-see feature of the basilica is the Pala d'Oro, an exquisite altarpiece made of gold, silver, and precious gems. This masterpiece of Byzantine art is located behind the high altar and is considered one of the most important examples of religious art in the world. Visitors should also take the time to admire the intricate carvings and sculptures that adorn the walls and columns of the basilica. These works of art were created by some of the greatest artists of the Renaissance, and they represent a unique blend of Byzantine and Western European styles.

Inside St. Mark’s Basilica

Mosaics
Mosaics

The mosaics inside St. Mark's Basilica are one of its most prominent features. The walls and ceilings are covered with intricate patterns and scenes, depicting biblical stories, religious figures, and historical events. The mosaics are made up of tiny pieces of glass, called tesserae, which are arranged in intricate patterns to create a stunning effect. The most famous of these mosaics is the "Pala d'Oro".


Also, check out: Bell Tower at St. Mark's Basilica

Frescoes Inside St. Mark’s Basilica
Frescoes

In addition to the mosaics, St. Mark's Basilica is also adorned with beautiful frescoes. These paintings in St. Mark's Basilica are created by applying pigment onto wet plaster, resulting in a vibrant and long-lasting work of art. The frescoes in St. Mark's Basilica depict scenes from the life of Christ, as well as portraits of various saints and other religious figures.

Marble Floors Inside St. Mark’s Basilica
Marble Floors

The floors of St. Mark's Basilica are made of beautiful marble, inlaid with intricate designs and patterns. The marble is sourced from various regions of Italy and is arranged in a way that creates a stunning visual effect. The floors are particularly impressive in their complexity and attention to detail.

Altar Inside St. Mark’s Basilica
Altar

At the heart of St. Mark's Basilica is the high altar, which is adorned with various precious stones and metals. The St. Mark's Basilica altar is flanked by two columns, which are believed to have been taken from the Temple of Solomon in Jerusalem. The high altar is the focal point of the church and is an impressive work of art in its own right.


Also, check out highlights of St. Mark's Basilica

Bronze Horses Inside St. Mark’s Basilica
Bronze Horses

One of the most recognizable features of St. Mark's Basilica is the four bronze horses that stand atop its facade. These horses in St. Mark's Basilica are believed to be over 2,000 years old and were originally brought to Venice from Constantinople in the 13th century. The horses have been restored numerous times over the centuries and are now housed inside the basilica to protect them from the elements.

Pulpit Inside St. Mark’s Basilica
Pulpit

The pulpit in St. Mark's Basilica is a masterpiece of Gothic sculpture. It was created by the sculptor Niccolò di Pietro in the 14th century and depicts scenes from the life of Christ. The pulpit is made of marble and is supported by intricate columns and arches.

Choir Stalls
Choir Stalls

The choir stalls in St. Mark's Basilica are made of carved wood and are decorated with intricate designs and scenes from the Bible. The choir stalls are located in the apse of the church and are used by the choir during religious services.

Treasury Inside St. Mark’s Basilica
Treasury

The treasury in St. Mark's Basilica houses a collection of religious relics and precious objects, including gold and silver chalices, crosses, and other religious artifacts. The treasury is located behind the high altar and is open to visitors for viewing.

The Narthex Inside St. Mark’s Basilica
The Narthex

The narthex is the entrance hall to St. Mark's Basilica, located at the west end of the building. The narthex contains beautiful mosaics and sculptures, as well as a museum that showcases St. Mark's Basilica's history and art.

Book Your St. Mark's Basilica Tours

FAQ’s

Explore St. Mark's Basilica

Explore Venice