PLAZA SAN MARCOS: The Historical Symbol of Venice
Plaza San Marcos, for centuries, has been the historical symbol of Venice, unique in the world for its charm and destination for thousands of tourists. The square dates from the ninth century, when the Doge, who leaves Malamocco and moved to Rialto, decided that the plaza was the place to settle because here the main roads converged water.
At that time, the place was on an island that was called “Morso”, which passed batari River dividing it into two: on one side was the Basilica of San Marco and the Church of San Teodoro, on the other, Church of San Geminiano “and the extensive gardens of the convent of San Zaccaria”, while the Ducal Palace Square was separated by a channel.
Since its origin in the square have been held many activities in the city, from markets to stage shows, carnival processions and parades. In the twelfth century, by decision of the Doge Ziani Segastiano to celebrate a visit by Pope Alexander III and Emperor Barbarossa, the square was renovated: the Rio batari was buried around the Ducal Palace was built a square where the columns are lifted San Marcos and San Todaro, the patron saint of the city, the church of San Geminiano was demolished and rebuilt right on the other side and began to build the current “Procuratie Vecchie [Attorneys Viejas].
In the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, it changed the Ducal Palace and the Basilica to comply with the new taste of the Gothic style, was built Clock Tower and Old Procurators were modified. In the sixteenth century, and then Scamozzi built Sansovino Library, the “Loggetta” [the auction] and the Attorney News, to give even more prestige to the city. Coffee shops, first opened in 1683, have contributed to the place even more special. The Florian, Quadri, the Lavena eighteenth century are cafes that remain open, where tourists can try a coffee in the Plaza de San Marcos.
Another peculiarity of the square are … pigeons. There are several theories to explain why his presence might come from the pigeons that he donated to the wife of the Doge with the arrival of the army of Attila, or come from the pigeons that released to celebrate Easter. Although it is not known where they come from, the fact is that there are many and are an attraction for tourists. Remember that it is prohibited to sell food to the pigeons, to try to decrease the amount as they may be carriers of disease.
Near the lake, the lowest point of the city, the plaza is one of the first areas suffering high tide, on these occasions, you can cross through the plaza walkways they are mounted. The Basilica of San Marco, the Ducal Palace, the famous cafes and elegant shops make this place so special, so we must prepare to remain speechless.
Source: www.venecia.es/visitar-venecia/san-marco/plaza-san-marcos.htm
image source: http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/263516.jpg