Construction of the first Venetian place of worship dedicated to the saint occurred shortly after his body had been smuggled out of Alexandria, allegedly hidden in a barrel of port to elude the attentions of the Muslim guards in 828! The current edifice is just over 900 years old, and was the private chapel of the Doges until Napoleon liquidated the republic, after which time it became the city's cathedral.

Although the original Byzantine style still predominates, the eclectic and unique exterior comprising domes, arches, columns and so forth alludes to the long process of modification carried out over a period of seven centuries by the local rulers in order to enhance their prestige. The façade is a magnificent sight from any distance, its full grandeur only becomes apparent when surveying the amazing mosaics overlooking the doorways, something that is easy to do whilst queuing for admittance.

Having been deemed to be appropriately dressed and so gained entry, the gilded designs that decorate the upper portions of the internal walls and also the ceilings quickly show themselves to be even more spectacular. The overall effect of being in the midst of the mostly golden portrayals of religious scenes is almost like standing within the pages of medieval illuminated manuscript. In fact, the glittering spectacle is so overwhelming that missing the other striking sights, including the impressive geometrically patterned and often-undulating floor is a very real possibility, as is forgetting about the surrounding crowds.

There are far too many notable features to describe each individually here, but among the most prominent is a superb stone iconostasis, a huge baptismal font and the attractive high altar, under which is supposedly the final resting place of the apostle's remains. The single most stunning thing is a splendid gold and enamel screen covered with various elaborate images made from thousands of precious stones, which is stored in a separate area at the back of the basilica. Meanwhile, there is also a treasury that is full of chalices, icons, reliquaries, and suchlike, much of which stolen from Constantinople during the Fourth Crusade in the early 1200s.

However, the greatest prize taken as plunder from the erstwhile capital of the Eastern Roman Empire is stored in the small museum located in the upstairs gallery. The renowned classical era bronze statue of four strutting horses is the original version of the replica that adorns the outside of the building. Making the ascent is also worthwhile due to the absolutely wonderful views both of the luxuriant interior and the renowned square of the same name that are available.

The symbol of St. Mark, the winged lion, became the official symbol of the Venetian Republic. Until 1807, when it became a cathedral church of Venice, it was beside Doge’s Palace, and served as Doge’s Chapel.

Its design is of a Greek cross, surrounded by five domes, in a Byzantine design. Sculptures, mosaics, and ceremonial objects have been added over the centuries, making it even more rich in beauty.