Venice is a city in Italy known for its beauty, history, and unforgettable charm. Perhaps no landmark is more iconic than St Mark’s Campanile, the towering bell tower in the heart of St Mark’s Square.
This imposing structure, reaching nearly 100 meters into the sky, offers visitors spectacular panoramic views of the city and the lagoon. But it’s not just the view that makes St Mark’s Campanile unique. This building has a rich history, dating back to the 9th century, and has played an essential role in the life of Venice.
When I visited Venice for the first time early in 2024, my friends and I had goals and places we wanted to see. Some of them were around St Mark’s Square, but we had to make a choice based on our lack of preparation for the massive queues we saw out there. The St Mark’s Campanile was the right one, mainly because the view from up there is beyond fantastic and unique in every possible way.
This is why I’m writing about this fantastic experience.
St Mark’s Campanile: A History of the Bell Tower of Venice
Originally built as a watchtower, the Campanile has seen many changes over the centuries. It was rebuilt in the 12th century and again in the 16th century when it took its current form. The belfry was added, along with a spire topped with a golden statue of the Archangel Gabriel. This statue rotates with the wind and has become a symbol of Venice to some people.
Throughout its many centuries, St Mark’s Campanile has served many purposes. It was a lighthouse for ships, guiding them safely into the harbor. Its bells rang out to mark important events and warn of danger. The famous astronomer Galileo Galilei even used it as an observatory!
St Mark’s Campanile has faced its share of challenges despite its solid appearance. It has been struck by lightning and shaken by earthquakes.
In 1902, disaster struck when the tower collapsed due to poorly done maintenance work. However, the people of Venice were determined to rebuild their beloved landmark. And they carefully gathered the fallen pieces and reconstructed the Campanile precisely as it was, ensuring it would continue to stand tall for generations.
Exploring Venice: Don’t Miss St Mark’s Campanile
Today, this is one of Venice’s most popular tourist attractions, and it’s easy to understand why. From the top, you can see the Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, the Grand Canal, and the many churches and palaces that make Venice unique. Visitors can take an elevator to the top and enjoy stunning city views.
Below are some tips that I need to share with you based on my experience.
Tips for Your Visit:
- Buying your tickets in advance will help you avoid long lines, especially during peak season.
- Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon: For epic pictures, the light is best at these times, and the crowds are smaller.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll walk a lot inside the tower and around St Mark’s Square.
- Bring your camera: You’ll want to capture the fantastic views from the top.
St Mark’s Campanile: Venice’s Soaring Icon
While the view from the top is undoubtedly the main attraction, don’t forget to appreciate the beauty of St Mark’s Campanile itself. Take your time to admire the elaborate details of the architecture and the craftsmanship that went into its construction and reconstruction!
St Mark’s Campanile is more than just a bell tower. It’s a symbol of Venice, a witness to its history, and a testament to the resilience of its people as it stands in the same place for millennia. So, when planning your trip to Venice, add this magnificent landmark to your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed.
The Campanile of St Mark’s Square: A Must-See in Venice
Piazza San Marco – 30124
Venezia VE, Italy
