ST. MARK'S, Cathedral - Treasure

St. Mark's is an infinite treasure chest of wonders, but if you want to be overwhelmed by the splendor of the past, you should enter the treasure chest of all treasure chests: the Treasury of the Cathedral.

Even from the entrance, you'll be captivated by the charm of these small rooms that have been created from the remains of an ancient tower of the first Doge's Palace. The recent and excellent renovation with well-studied lighting exalts the materials of the objects in the display cases: gold, alabaster, rock crystal, onyx, and precious minerals.

You are in one of the richest ecclesiastical treasures of all of Europe, which was fortunately spared from the Napoleonic occupation. These jewelry and sculpture masterpieces mostly date back to a famous historical episode: the Fourth Crusade. On that occasion, instead of marching on Jerusalem, the crusaders took on Constantinople. Led by Doge Enrico Dandolo, the Venetians brought an amazing booty of Byzantine artwork back to the Republic of Venice.

The display cases are in chronological order: they start with Roman, Egyptian, and Asian vessels, including cups, ampoules, vases, and amphorae. I'd like to point out the magnificent chalice made for a Byzantine emperor, with its border decorated with enamel plaques....