About St. Mark’s Basilica, Venice
St. Mark’s Basilica is one of the most iconic and celebrated religious monuments in Italy. Also known as San Marco Basilica, this structure is located at St. Mark's Square, Venice and was initially used as a chapel for the Doge, who was the then head of the state of Venice. Later on, when the remains of St. Mark’s were brought from Alexandria to Venice, the chapel was converted to honour St. Mark’s, the Evangelist. Its unique architecture in the Italian Gothic style, domes, museum, golden mosaics, artworks and treasury are what attract tourists and visitors from all over the world. Since it is located in close proximity to other important structures like the Doge’s Palace, St. Mark's Campanile and also the Grand Canal, which has amazing picturesque views and is best for photography. Apart from these, there are also numerous cafes, restaurants, hotels, souvenir shops, etc,.
Tips To Visit St. Mark’s Basilica Venice
Location: St. Mark’s Basilica is located at P.za San Marco, 328, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy.
Timings As for the timings and the days on which it remains open, it is accessible between 9:30 am and 5:00 pm, except on Sundays and a few public holidays, when its opening hours are limited and is generally open all across the year. Entry to the church is free and as such, you may find a long queue at the entrance and may be required to wait for quite some time. However, buying a ticket may help you skip the line and get a privileged entry.
FAQ's
Who built St. Mark’s Basilica?
St. Mark’s Basilica is believed to have been built by Domenico I Contarini. He was the Doge or supreme leader of Venice in the 11th century and built it as a private chapel.
When did St. Mark’s Basilica open?
In its original form, St. Mark’s Basilica was built in 829 and was finally consecrated in 832.
What’s inside St. Mark’s Basilica?
There are wondrous things inside and around St. Mark’s Basilica - the treasury having the finest Byzantine relics, the stunning Pala d’Oro altar, the museum or Museo Marciano, the marble floor and the most exquisite are the mosaics made of real gold and showing many biblical events.
What are the St. Mark’s Basilica opening hours?
St. Mark’s Basilica is generally open between 9:30 am and 5:00 pm, except on Sundays and public holidays when it has shorter timings. The museum and the bell tower have different opening hours. Ensure that you are well-versed with the required details and tips to visit St.Mark’s Basilica, Venice.
What are the mass timings at St. Mark’s Basilica?
The mass timings of the Basilica are as follows - Weekdays:
- 07:00 a.m.
- 08:00 a.m.
- 09:00 a.m.(Sung Mass of the Charter of the Canons preceded by the celebration of the praises)
- 10:00 a.m. (in baptistery)
- 11:00 a.m.
- 12:00 (suspended in the months of July and August);
- 06:45 p.m. (preceded by the celebration of Vespers and the rosary). Sundays and holidays:
- 07:00 a.m.
- 08:00 a.m.
- 09:00 a.m.
- 10:30 a.m. (Sung Mass with brief remarks in various languages, St. Mark’s Chapel)
- 12:00
- 05:30 p.m. (Celebration of Vespers and Madonna Nicopeia procession with the chant of the litanies)
- 06:45 p.m.
Why is St.Mark’s Basilica important?
St. Mark’s Basilica is one of the best places to visit in Venice. It is a site of immense historical and religious importance. Although it began as a chapel, it later on went to honour St.Mark’s, the Evangelist and has now become an important political centre too.
Is it worth visiting St. Mark’s Basilica?
Yes, it's absolutely worth visiting St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice! The sight of this architectural beauty, the interior consisting of golden mosaics and marbles, the museums, the gallery, the porch and the treasures is simply delightful to watch and will push you into a state of awe. Make sure to get yourself acquainted with important tips to visit St.Mark’s Basilica, Venice.