So up reasonably early and headed out to explore this city on water.
As we walk, every corner, each street, there is something unique to see.
There is no canal that would be described as not photogenic? They are all so different and picture perfect.
Spring is here!
This is a tiny, wee, one person alley, through to the next piazza. There were people behind me so this is my photo on the move. I think pretty cool.
And this is where it opens up to.
A lovely, quiet, piazza.
Love this archer way. Every once in awhile, the sidewalk or alley abruptly ends. Unless you get into a boat or gondola....or swim, you need to turn back and find a different way.
It's exciting and fun getting lost in Venice.
Market day!
The fruit is so vibrant, huge, and plentiful.
The iconic gondolas.
I wonder if anyone would notice if we take one for a wee spin? How hard can it be?
Yikes.
Venice is a shoppers dream. So many shops tucked into little cubbies.
This chocolate store gave free samples.
Delicious.
......and then we were there. St. Mark's Basilica. (Basilica San Marco)
It is located in a huge square..... the Piazza San Marco.
It has been repeated over the years, that Napoleon referred to Piazza San Marco as "the drawing room of Europe."
We have been there in the evening when they have had 'duelling orchestras.' That was fantastic.
The crowd would move from side to side in the Piazza listening to the music challenges.
Built between the years 1060 and 1100 it is the most famous church in Venice.
Pictures do not do justice to how massive and beautiful it is.
It is said that the remains of Saint Mark, the Disciple to Jesus, were found and are located inside the basilica named for him. It is a Catholic Church.
The 'Horses of St. Mark's' on the facade of the Basilica were actually taken from Venice and kept in Paris for 400 years by Napoleon after he defeated and conquered Venice.
The original horses are now safely inside the Basilica with replicas in view outside.
The Piazzetta di San Marco with the Basilica at my back.
The two marble columns were erected in 1268. Each has a Saint on the top.
On the right is Saint Theodore and on the left is 'The Lion of Venice' which represents Saint Mark.
An incredible day with friends.
Iconic photos of the gondolas at the mouth of the Grand Canal.
Found these fellows hiding in a cubby in the Piazza.
I took the liberty of 'photo shopping' the statues to ensure this blog is for everyone.
The Doge Palace. (below)
The original Doge Palace was built on this site in the 9th Century.
It was the residence of the Doge of Venice. The Doge was the ruler of the Republic of Venice, who had supreme power, until the fall of the Republic when Napoleon occupied and conquered the city in 1797.
Looking out over the Grand Canal. (below)
Love this photo.
This piazza is literally steps from the sea and floods during storm surges or high seas.
We have been there when this happens and they actually have elevated platforms that are linked together to make walkways. You can still see them in the alleys around the piazzas.
On a sad note, I read that Venice is sinking into the sea 1 cm every 10 years.
Put Venice on your bucket list now.....just saying.
The line ups to go into the Basilica are unbelievably long.
Unfortunately we have never gone inside yet.
But....on our next trip to Venice....we will book a tour and get in.
The towering Campanile of St. Mark's Church, also known as the Bell Tower.
Built in 1173. We actually have gone to the top of the Campanile where the views of Venice and the Piazza San Marco are magnificent.
It's been a long day of walking. I think it is time to hop on a vaporetto and tour the Grand Canal.
It's got to be gelato time too???
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