This is a guest post from Casey Kim of Casey Kim Explores.
The city of Venice is noted for its art and architecture. It has a unique style of its own, but the city’s heritage owes much to its deep historical ties with Byzantium. Here we explore some of the treasures of Byzantine Venice, and look at how you can experience them for yourself.
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The Byzantine Influence In Venice
Byzantium played an important part in the early history of Venice. In the 6th century the Emperor Justinian I reconquered parts of the Western Roman Empire, and Venice remained under Byzantine rule for several centuries. The city benefitted from the maritime supremacy of the Byzantine Empire, and its garrisons and fleets, until the 11th century.
The Byzantine influence left a lasting artistic legacy across northern Italy, most notably seen in the stunning mosaics of San Vitale in Ravenna. In the Republic of Venice the artistic and architectural imprint of Byzantium endured well beyond the Middle Ages. Although the city gradually developed its own distinct artistic and architectural style, this was deeply rooted in its earlier heritage, leading to what is often referred to as the Veneto-Byzantine style.
Byzantine Treasures In Venice
Here are some of the best places to discover Byzantine influenced art and architecture in Venice.
The Basilica Of Saint Mark
Originally built in the 9th century to house the relics of St Mark the Evangelist, St Mark’s Basilica stands as one of the most celebrated examples of Byzantine art and architecture worldwide. Its gilded domes, shimmering mosaics, and intricately designed interior highlight the grandeur of Byzantine craftsmanship.
The basilica’s connection to Byzantium was enhanced after the fall of Constantinople in 1204, when numerous treasures were brought to Venice. Some of the most remarkable artefacts now housed in the basilica’s museum include:
- The porphyry head of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I
- The porphyry statues of the Tetrarchs
- The bronze horses that originally adorned the Hippodrome of Constantinople.
Doge’s Palace
Adjacent to St Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace was originally constructed as a Byzantine fortress, but later became the seat of Venetian power. The Hall of the Great Council (Sala del Maggior Consiglio) exemplifies the fusion of Gothic and Byzantine styles, with its ornate capitals, frescoes, and grand architectural proportions.
This hall played a crucial role in shaping Venice’s concept of public space, reinforcing the city’s tradition of civic engagement.
St Mark’s Square
The Piazza San Marco, home to both St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, has long been the heart of Venetian cultural and political activity. The Byzantine influence is evident in the arcades, decorative elements, and harmonious proportions of the surrounding buildings, all seamlessly integrated into the rhythm of daily life.
Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo
A short walk from St Mark’s Square, the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo – nicknamed the “Palace of the Snail” due to its distinctive spiral staircase – offers a later example of Byzantine-inspired architecture. Built in the late 15th century, its elegant columns, balustrades, and spiral staircase reflect the enduring influence of the Veneto-Byzantine style, albeit on a smaller scale.
Byzantine Gems Beyond Venice
Further examples can be found in the islands of the Venetian lagoon.
Murano: Basilica Of Virgin Mary And St Donatus
Murano, famous for its glassmaking, is also home to the Basilica Santi Maria e Donato, where Byzantine mosaic artists crafted a breathtaking nave mosaic of the Virgin Mary. This masterpiece bears a striking resemblance to the mosaics of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, a testament to the artistic exchange between Venice and the eastern Mediterranean.
The intricate mosaic pavement on the floor of the basilica is a further demonstration of the skill of Byzantine artisans.
Torcello: Basilica Of Santa Maria Assunta
On the island of Torcello, the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta boasts one of Venice’s most significant Byzantine artistic treasures – its golden mosaics portraying the Virgin Mary. The Last Judgement, depicted on the west wall, is another stunning example of Byzantine craftsmanship, created by artists who brought their expertise from Constantinople.
How To Explore Byzantine Venice
Most of Venice’s Byzantine landmarks are easily accessible by foot or vaporetto (water bus).
- To reach St Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, take any vaporetto line except 7, 8, 18, or 19 and disembark at S. Marco S. Zaccaria – the closest stop. From there, it’s just a short walk to St Mark’s Square.
- If you prefer to walk, the route from Piazzale Roma (where public transport arrives in Venice) to St Mark’s Square is well-signposted. This makes navigation easy without relying on Google Maps. Pack your phone, keep an eye on the signs, then look up and let Venice’s hidden gems surprise you along the way.
Finding Palazzo Contarini Del Bovolo
To reach Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, walk north from St Mark’s Square toward St Mark’s Clocktower (Torre dell’Orologio). Pass the clock tower and continue into the residential and commercial district. The palazzo is tucked away, so you may need to ask for directions or consult a map.
Visiting Murano And Torcello
- Murano: Take vaporetto line 4.1 directly from Piazzale Roma or line 5.1, transferring at Fondamente Nove to line 12 for Murano.
- Torcello: From Murano, hop on line 12 to reach Torcello. After visiting the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, take line 12 back to Venice.
Taking A Tour
If you prefer to explore with a knowledgeable guide, there are several options available. A Byzantine Wonders walking tour takes in some of the city’s main sights, including St Mark’s Basilica. Or a Murano, Burano & Torcello Guided Boat Tour includes the Basilica in Torcello and allows free time to explore in Murano.
Casey Kim is a Singapore-based independent travel blogger who has uncovered hidden gems in more than 50 countries.
