About St. Mark's Campanile and Piazzetta Columns

St. Mark’s Campanile, a 99m tall bell tower in Venice, was originally built in the 9^th century and rebuilt after its dramatic collapse in 1902.

Architectural Design and Purpose

Constructed of red brick and topped with a pyramidal spire, St. Mark’s Campanile once served as both a watchtower and a lighthouse. Its belfry houses five bells, each with a distinct role—from signalling work hours to announcing official executions.

A Golden Guardian Above

Crowning the Campanile is a golden statue of Archangel Gabriel, which also functions as a weathervane. Visible across Venice, the statue not only adds grandeur but symbolizes divine protection over the city and the iconic square below.

The Piazzetta Columns: A Ceremonial Threshold

At the tower’s base lie the Piazzetta Columns—San Marco and San Teodoro—installed in the 12^th century. The columns mark the symbolic gateway to Venice. Historically used for public executions, the space between them is still avoided by superstitious locals.