It is the lowest point in Venice; therefore, when there is Acqua Alta, it is the first place to be flooded. When this happens, the authorities place wooden footbridges for the locals and tourists. Several times a year, the square is completely flooded, so depending on whether you want to experience the Acqua Alta, you might be lucky or not, depending on when you visit the city.

The most famous buildings in the piazza are: St Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, the Museo Correr and the Campanile (the Basilica’s bell tower) and the Torre dell’ Orologio. In the Renaissance-style top balcony of the Torre dell’ Orologio (Clock Tower), two bronze figures representing Moors strike the hour. During Ascension week and Epiphany, statues of the Three Wise Men emerge from the clock tower and are presided over by an angel every time the little figures strike the hour. A real treat for all visitors.

It is also worth highlighting the Columns of Saint Mark and Saint Theodore. The two columns are made of granite and marble and were placed near the entrance of the square in 1172. During the eighteenth century, public executions were held between the two pillars.