St. Mark's Basilica Overview
Explore The St. Mark's Basilica Terrace
Located high above the basilica's main floor, the terrace offers an unparalleled view of Venice's skyline. The terrace is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience a unique perspective of the city's stunning architecture and picturesque canals. To access the terrace, visitors must climb a narrow staircase that winds its way up through the basilica's interior. The climb is not for the faint of heart, as the stairs are steep and the passageway can be cramped at times. However, the climb is well worth the effort once you reach the top.
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One of the most impressive sights on the terrace is the bronze horses at St. Mark's Basilica that sit atop the Basilica's entrance. The horses were originally brought to Venice from Constantinople in the 13th century and are considered to be one of the city's most treasured artifacts. From the terrace, you can get an up-close look at these stunning St. Mark's Basilica sculptures and appreciate their intricate details.
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In addition to the stunning views, the terrace itself is an architectural masterpiece. The terrace's colonnade is supported by a series of slender marble columns that create an elegant and airy space. The columns are adorned with intricate carvings and decorative details, adding to the terrace's overall beauty.
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Visitors can also explore the terrace's upper level, which offers a bird's-eye view of the basilica's interior. From this height, you can see the ornate mosaics that cover the basilica's walls and ceiling, as well as the intricate details of the altar and other liturgical objects.
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Plan Your Visit To St. Mark's Basilica
Location: P.za San Marco, 328, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy
Operational Hours: St. Mark's Basilica's opening hours are every day from 9:30 AM to 5:15 PM. However, on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation, it is open from 2 PM. The Loggia dei Cavalli museum is open for visitors on Sundays from 9:30 AM to 2 PM, while the Bell Tower at St. Mark's Basilica can be accessed daily from 9:30 AM to 9:15 PM. Entry to the Basilica is free for prayer, mass, and services through the entrance Porta dei Fiori on the north side of Piazzetta dei Leoncini square. The prayer times run from 8 AM to 7:30 PM every day. It's important to note that the last admission for tourists to enter St. Mark's Basilica is at 4:45 PM, and the final entry time to the Bell Tower is at 8:45 PM.
Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit St. Mark's Basilica is early in the morning before the crowds arrive. Generally, the first hour or two after the Basilica opens (9:30 AM) is the least crowded time to visit. However, it is also a good idea to check the cruise ship schedule as the Basilica tends to be more crowded when cruise ships are in port. Additionally, visiting during the off-season (November to February) can also be a good time as there are fewer tourists in Venice overall.
By Ferry: To reach St. Mark's Basilica from Rialto Bridge, take a 3-minute walk via Riva del Ferro and Riva del Carbon to Rialto "B" jetty. Then, board an ACTV S.p.a-run ferry on Line 1 and get off at S. Marco-San Zaccaria's "F" stop. After that, continue walking straight and take a left turn at Riva Degli Schiavoni. The Basilica is located only 380 meters away from the ferry stop. If you're traveling from Piazzale Roma, you can board the water bus line 1 or direct lines 51 & 2 to reach St. Mark's Basilica.
By Train: Venice is well-connected to other major Italian cities through train services. The closest railway station to the city is Santa Lucia, which is just a three-minute drive from Piazzale Roma. Once you reach the railway station, you can easily travel to your destination by taking the water-bus line.
By Car: To reach Venice from nearby cities like Verona or Padua, take the road SR11 to get to Piazzale Roma. Once you arrive, park your vehicle in the designated parking lot and travel by water bus to reach St. Mark's Basilica.
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FAQs
What is the St. Mark's Basilica Terrace?
The St. Mark's Basilica Terrace is an elevated platform or balcony located above the main entrance of St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, Italy.
What can I see from the St. Mark's Basilica Terrace?
From the St. Mark's Basilica Terrace, you can enjoy breathtaking views of St. Mark's Square, the Doge's Palace, the Campanile (bell tower), and the rooftops of Venice. It offers a unique vantage point to admire the architectural beauty of the city.
Is there a dress code to visit the St. Mark's Basilica Terrace?
Yes, there is a dress code to enter St. Mark's Basilica, which also applies to the terrace. Both men and women are required to have their shoulders and knees covered. Sleeveless shirts, shorts, and miniskirts are not permitted.
Are there guided tours available for the St. Mark's Basilica Terrace?
Yes, guided tours of St. Mark's Basilica that include access to the terrace are available. These tours provide visitors with detailed information about the basilica's history, architecture, and the significance of the terrace.
Inside St. Mark's Basilica