Saint Mark's Basilica

Located in St. Mark's Square and adjacent to the Doge's Palace, St. Mark's Basilica was built in 828 and rebuilt in the 11th century due to a fire. It was originally used to house the remains of St. Mark, and was later used to collect plunders from various countries during the Eastern Expedition. Back treasure. It was once the largest church in medieval Europe and a treasure trove of rich art. Architectural style St. Mark's Basilica is dominated by Byzantine style, blending various architectural and decorative styles from Romanesque to Renaissance style. There are five Romanesque gates in the shape of diamond arches on the front, and oriental and Romanesque gates on the top. The German minaret and various marble statues, reliefs and flower-shaped patterns, huge domes and brilliant mosaics are its outstanding features. The church consists of five huge domed main halls and two cloistered vestibules, forming a giant Greek cross. The five domes are modeled after the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey. The three flagpoles standing in front of the church are meaningful, representing the three islands of Cyprus, Crete and Morea owned by Venice when it was at its peak, and it is a testimony to the glorious history of the city. At the top of the center of the church is a statue of St. Mark holding the Gospel of Mark, and below it is a flying lion symbolizing St. Mark.