When we were in Venice two years ago and going through St. Marks Cathedral, spotlights came on and illuminated the dome of the church. I think it was around noon. Does anyone know what time these lights are turned on? It was an amazing view! I thought I had read it in one of Rick's books but can't find it now.
Posted by
Corvallis OR
7034 posts
I found this on the following website: www.italylogue.com/planning-a-trip/st-marks-basilica.html "Unfortunately, the schedule for when the church's incredible golden mosaics are lit is not set in stone, but if you can time your visit to coincide with the lights being on, the mosaics glow even more. Generally, the lights are on from about 11:30-12:30 on weekdays, and all day on weekends (all day because there are masses held during the day – when mass is going, so are the lights)."
Posted by
San Jose, CA
1994 posts
One point: You can't tour the church while Mass is going on. However, anyone is welcome to attend Mass.
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
32776 posts
A great way to see the illuminated mosaics is from upstairs in the museum.
Posted by
Florida, USA
12172 posts
Yes, there is a "night and day" difference between seeing St. Mark's interior illuminated and when it isn't lit up. When lit, the entire place looks like it's made of gold. It's enough of a difference to plan your time around the interior being lit. It is lit during mass, so you could go around that time or ask when it will be lit. "Nothing set in stone" is a general statement that applies to almost any question about Italy - funny for a country with so many stone statues, buildings and monuments. As Nigel said, you can get some great views of the mosaics from upstairs in the museum. I'd start downstairs for an overall view, then go to the museum for some closer views.
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15585 posts
I've only been twice, in 2008 and 2010. Both visits were weekdays and both times the floodlights were on from 11.30 to 12.30.