Called “lounge of the world” as the site of the most important political and religious events in the history of the Republic of Venice, San Marco’s Square is the beating heart of the homonymous district, classified among the most fascinating squares in the world. Among the symbols par excellence of the city of Venice that overlook in all their splendor on the square we find the Ducale Palace, venue of Venetian political power, the Basilica of San Marco, the Marciana National Library which houses among the largest collections in the world of Greek, Latin and Oriental manuscripts, the bell tower of San Marco, called “Paron de casa” which stands for over 98 meters overlooking the square and the Clock Tower, a marvel of old-time engineering, with the “Do Mori”, two bronze statues so traditionally called by the Venetians, who punctuate the hours with the tolling of their clubs on the bell. In the splendid setting of the porticoes of the old and new Procuratie that border it, the historic Caffè Florian rises, the oldest Italian coffee attended by famous people from Goethe to Goldoni.

On the opposite side of the basilica, the Napoleonic Wing houses inside the Correr Museum which, through its rich collection, tells the story of the civilization, history and art of Venice. To savor the essence of the most elegant and rich district of the city you can not miss a pleasant walk from Piazza San Marco to reach the Rialto area, along Le Mercerie, the main commercial artery of the city of Venice as well as the shopping street par excellence between luxury boutiques and jewelers. Other not-to-be-missed sights are the La Fenice Theater, Venice’s main opera house, the Goldoni Theater, the oldest theater in the city and Grassi Palace/Punta della Dogana overlooking the Grand Canal, permanent venue of the François Pinault collection and contemporary art exhibitions. An unforgettable square, an immense harmonious space between unparalleled art and architecture with skilful play of light on rich decorations, sculptures and friezes: Piazza San Marco is all of this and more.