Saint Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)

Oringally intended as a chapel for the monarchs of Venice, the cathedral grew to become the city’s main place of workship. The church is located on St. Mark’s square, and adjacent to the Doge’s Palace. The ornate nature of the church’s architecture and adornment can easily be attributed to the fact it stood as another symbol of Venice’s power.

The entire upper interior of the church is covered in unbelievable mosaics containing gold, bronze, and the greatest variety of stones. Both Byzantine and Gothic influences can be recognized withing these walls. Accordingly, the church is also known as Chiesa d'Oro (Church of gold).