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The Fascinating St. Mark's Basilica History - From 9th Century Church to Venetian Seat of Power

A favorite among the religious and political domains of Venice, St. Mark’s Basilica is a 1000-year-old city legacy. The Basilica di San Marco in Italian or otherwise known as the “church of gold” is today renowned around the globe for its beautiful mosaic work and holds the remains of St. Mark that were transported from Alexandria, Egypt. Read on to uncover the fascinating history of St. Mark’s Basilica and why you must visit this intriguing monument!

St. Mark's Basilica historical timeline

828 AD: Relics of Saint Mark brought from Alexandria, Egypt, to a temporary shelter in Venice.

832 AD: The church was constructed as a permanent building.

976 AD: As a part of the rebellion, the church is burnt down.

978 AD: The church is rebuilt.

1063 AD: Under the patronage of Domenico Contarini, a construction project is undertaken which constitutes the basis of present-day St. Mark’s Basilica.

1094 AD: Vitale Falier consecrated the Basilica and devoted it to Saint Mark.

1807 AD: On Napoleon's instructions, St. Mark’s Basilica was transformed into the Patriarch of Venice's residence and declared a city cathedral.

15th to 17th Century: The basilica faced periods of political instability and underwent further renovations, contributing to its rich architectural styles blending Byzantine, Romanesque, and Gothic influences.

19th Century: The basilica was restored following damages caused by centuries of exposure and environmental factors.

20th Century: Preservation efforts intensified to safeguard the basilica from potential structural degradation and to maintain its historical and artistic significance.

History of St. Mark’s Basilica

Origins in the 9th Century

Origins in the 9th Century

The Basilica di San Marco was originally built to enshrine the relics of a saint, which had been brought to Venice by traders in a barrel filled with pork after being secretly taken from Egypt. During a treacherous storm that threatened to overturn the ship, the saint's ghost appeared to guide the sailors to lower the sails, saving them from impending disaster. As a testament to this miraculous event, a fresco depicting the supernatural intervention was made, and you can see this inside the basilica.

Reconstruction & Rebirth

Reconstruction & Rebirth

976 AD - 978 AD

In 976 AD, a populist uprising targeted the Doge, resulting in the furious mob setting fire to the castrum. The flames swiftly engulfed the adjoining church, severely damaging it. Consequently, the assembly relocated the Doge election ceremony to San Pietro di Castello. Despite damage, the basilica's core structure endured. Over time, successive Doges oversaw rebuilds and expansions after fires, shaping its architectural evolution.

Ambitious construction projects

Ambitious construction projects

1063 AD - 1094 AD

The 11th century witnessed ambitious construction initiatives that transformed St. Mark's Basilica into its enduring form. Under the patronage of Domenico Contarini, significant construction projects elevated the architectural landscape and grand appeal of basilica. A pivotal moment arrived in 1094 AD when Vitale Falier presided over the basilica's consecration, cementing its spiritual importance as a revered center of faith in Venice.

Relations with the East

Relations with the East

800 - 1300 AD

Venice's intensified trade, cultural exchanges, and maritime dominance catalyzed its influence in the Eastern Mediterranean. The city-state emerged as a vital hub for commerce and cultural interaction with Byzantium. In the 12th century, Venice's pivotal involvement in the Fourth Crusade significantly altered its destiny. The campaign secured vast riches and art treasures from Byzantium, strengthening Venice's regional dominance and cultural prosperity.

Influence of the Fourth Crusade

Influence of the Fourth Crusade

12th - 15th Century

In 1204, the Fourth Crusade brought plundered treasures from Constantinople to St. Mark's, enhancing its artistic wealth and stature. Throughout the 13th to 15th centuries, St. Mark's Basilica prominently showcased Byzantine and Eastern artistic styles, influencing its architecture, art, and cultural essence. It also shaped the basilica's unique appearance and cultural position, symbolizing Venice's enduring ties to the East.

Transformation in the 19th Century

Transformation in the 19th Century

1807 AD

During the 19th century, marked political changes redefined St. Mark's Basilica's role. In 1807, under Napoleon's orders, the basilica underwent a significant transformation. It ceased to serve solely as a symbol of the city's historical and religious significance and was repurposed as the seat of the Patriarch of Venice. The basilica shifted its role to become more ecclesiastical, concluding a thousand-year association with the Venetian Doges.

About St. Mark's Basilica today

Construction of St. Mark’s Basilica

St. Mark's Basilica stands proud as a beautiful product of Byzantine and Gothic architectural fusion. Its construction, initiated in the 9th century, was propelled by Doge Giustiniano Particiaco's decision to house Saint Mark's relics, marking the foundation of the basilica. The architectural ensemble witnessed its definitive structure under the patronage of Doge Domenico Contarini around the 11th century.

Notably, the basilica's architecture features a central dome, spandrels, and four pillars supporting the immense vaults. The west façade exhibits intricate designs with round-arched entrances surrounded by polychrome marble columns, an artful display of Venetian engineering. Inside, the basilica boasts approximately 500 ancient columns and capitals, decorated with beautiful 12th-century marble flooring and vibrant mosaics spread across its upper levels, embellished with gold glass tesserae, symbolizing luxury.

​More on St. Mark's Basilica architecture

St. Mark’s Basilica Today

Today, St. Mark’s Basilica is an important cathedral in Venice, Italy. The dazzling outer structure and carefully detailed interiors make this an architectural marvel worth visiting. Regardless of your religious affiliation, the mass at St. Mark’s Basilica will give you a breathtaking and scintillating experience. Beyond that, its legacy of history, divinity and architecture makes it a must-see when in Venice.

​Plan your visit to St. Mark's Basilica

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St. Mark's Basilica Hosted Entry Tickets with Skip-the-Line Access

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St. Mark's Basilica Entry & Doge's Palace Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audioguide

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Venice Icons: St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

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St. Mark's Basilica Guided Tour with Museum

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Venice Pass Skip-the-Line St. Mark's Basilica & Bell Tower

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St. Mark’s Basilica Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide

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St. Mark's Basilica Guided Tour With Gondola Ride

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Venice in a Day: St. Mark’s, Doge’s Palace, Murano & Burano with Gondola Ride

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Venice Walking Tour with St. Mark's Basilica & Doge's Palace Guided Tour

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St. Mark's Basilica Night Tour with Optional Doge's Palace

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Frequently asked questions about St. Mark’s Basilica history

How old is St. Mark’s Basilica?

St. Mark’s Basilica is roughly 1100 years old. The foundation of the basilica dates back to the 9th century when it was established to house the relics of Saint Mark. However, its present structure largely emerged around the 11th century.

What is the historical significance of St. Mark's Basilica?

St. Mark's Basilica holds immense historical value as a symbol of Venetian power, spirituality, and artistic brilliance. It not only shelters the relics of Saint Mark but also symbolizes Venice's connection to the Byzantine world and its rise as a major maritime republic.

How many years did it take to build St. Mark's Basilica?

The construction of the basilica was not a singular endeavor but rather evolved over centuries. The initial structure was built in the 9th century, and subsequent renovations and enhancements spanned several decades.

What is St. Mark’s Basilica famous for?

​St. Mark’s Basilica is called the “church of gold” making it extremely famous among travelers to enjoy the mosaic art and other elements from the ancient era to the 19th century.

Who built/designed St. Mark’s Basilica?

Domenico Contarini, the 30th Doge of Venice was involved in building St. Mark’s Basilica. Notable patrons such as Giustiniano Particiaco also played crucial roles in its development and expansion.

What is the architectural style of St. Mark’s Basilica?

​St. Mark's Basilica architecture exhibits a unique fusion of Byzantine and Gothic styles. Primarily Byzantine in design, it features domes, intricate mosaics, and luxurious decoration. The exterior displays Byzantine features, while the interior reveals a fusion of styles, incorporating mosaic designs, marble columns, and detailed ornamentation that evolved through various periods of construction and renovation. This diverse blend of architectural influences contributes to the basilica's distinct and striking appearance.

What is the historical context in which St. Mark's Basilica was created?

The basilica's creation was deeply rooted in Venice's historical and cultural ties with Byzantium. It served as a testament to Venice's rising power and its establishment as a significant maritime republic.

What events or incidents have shaped the history of St. Mark's Basilica?

The basilica faced several fires and reconstructions, notably the fire of 976 AD, which led to its rebuilding and expansion. Additionally, it played a vital role in Venetian ceremonies and state affairs.

What are some lesser-known historical facts or anecdotes about St. Mark's Basilica?

The basilica's iconic horses, originally from Constantinople, were looted during the Fourth Crusade and later placed atop the facade. Additionally, its precious mosaics and treasures hold stories of trade, conquests, and the city's reverence for Saint Mark.

Is it worth visiting St. Mark’s Basilica?

Absolutely! Visiting St. Mark's Basilica offers a profound experience of Venice's cultural and historical heritage, showcasing remarkable architectural beauty, artistic treasures, and centuries-old tales of spiritual significance.

Are there guided tours explaining St. Mark’s Basilica’s history?

Yes, St. Mark's Basilica guided tours are available that provide in-depth explanations of it's history, architecture, and significance. These tours, led by knowledgeable guides, offer insights into the basilica's construction, its mosaics, artworks, and the historical context behind its creation.

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