Another item on our agenda today was the bell tower of St. Mark’s Basilica which is one of Venice’s most recognizable landmarks. The current tower is an early 20th century reconstruction of the original tower which completely collapsed in 1902. The tower took 10 years to rebuilt and it is an exact replica of the previous tower with the exception of some structural underpinning which make it more robust and sturdy. The best thing about it is the elevator that takes you up to the viewing deck right under the 5 large bells.
The first tower standing at the site of the campanile was built in the 7th century, possibly as a lighthouse. The first clock tower dates from around the year 900. Throughout the centuries, it was rebuilt a number of times, finally reaching its current look around 1513, after a restoration following a damaging earthquake. I am not sure what is a best way to see Venice, if it is from this tower or from the water taxi as you approach St. Mark’s square on the Grand Canal or if it is from the gondola ride or the aimless wander around the narrow streets with shops and cafe. Having done all of these, it is fair to say that to get a good feel for what Venice is you should do at least three of these if not all four. We can’t imagine what our perception and experience of Venice would be if we did not see it from all these angles.