Basilica di San Marco...Finally

We have literally lost count of how many times we've visited Venice over the last 20+ years, and I hate admit that we've never been inside the gorgeous Basilica in St. Mark Square.

It's always so crowded, with lines going on forever to enter. 

We happened to get out early a couple of mornings ago, with no intention of going, but when we walked through the square, it was almost empty. There were a handful of people in line at 8:30, so we hemmed and hawed as we sort of got in line.

There was a delightful couple there, and we got to chatting....next thing we knew, we were officially standing in line behind them.

I am soooo glad we met them. We probably would have decided not to go in without their encouragement.

So. I took more photos than I can believe. This first one is just a random photo I got from online, but the rest are from our visit inside.

Enjoy!

Stock photo of the exterior...
It was hard to get a good shot, as they are doing work all around.

Morning light.

As we entered, we were just gobsmacked. What were we waiting for?!? 

THIS!!!

Mosaics all around, with stunning wooden sculpures.

The tiniest golden tiles make these magical.

This is actually carved marble.

 

The floors are amazing, as well....All marble.

Even Hawky was there!

We paid the extra 7 euro each to go upstairs. Totally worth it. The regular entrance fee is 3 euros at this time.

Upstairs, you can get really close to the mosaics.

I'm guessing these are 1/4" x 1/4" pieces.
Just incredible.

It was great seeing these up close...

More detail in the ceiling area.

There is a side room upstairs wit a collection of old tapestries and books....

Carved lion of Saint Marco.

It was exciting to see the 4 original horses. The ones outside are copies. These are the true horses, and they are inside to keep them safe from the elements.

To learn more about the horses, check it out here.

I loved the patina on these fine fellows.

Next, we went outside to see the "copied" horses, and also to get the best views ever...

One happy boy!

Me, too!
(jeez...do I look tired!)

The line below just getting started for the day.

It was a beautiful morning to be there.

We did it!!!

I've always loved this clocktower with it's blue 
color and golden stars.

Hehehehehe.
They are everywhere.

The marble all around is incredible.

The inside view from the upper floor is worth the 7 euros.

A few more mosaics to enjoy, then back down the stairs to say goodbye.

It's tight! And steep!

It was a treat to see a hawk hanging around the Campanile!
Look very close...it's waiting for a pigeon, I bet.

It was a great morning, and we can now check it off the ever growing list of things we want to do someday!