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San Marco Basilica
San Marco Basilica, Venice Back to Venice today to take a look at the main area that we didn't worry about the other day. We got in reasonably early with Diego and managed to miss the worst of the crowds later in the day. We took the ferry boat to San Marco Square and then had to face the crowds. What a mission. People, queues and travel parties everywhere. But, despite that, the places we chose to visit were worth the hassle. First, we went to St Marks Basilica, and it really is WOW! We have visited a few churches large and small in the past days, but they pale against St Marks. Architecturally, it's fantastic - complicated and detailed - modelled on one built in Istanbul in the 800's.This one was started in approx 1060 and finished 30 years later. The mosaic floor is very colourful. The gold tile worked mosaics are intricate and rich looking. Up on the Terrace level are four life sized bronze horses, plus models of the building and remains found from around the location. A must see.
From there we went to the Doge's Palace. It is huge and sumptuous throughout. The standout feature was the large Congress Room
The Grand Canal
The Grand Canal, Venice and other governing rooms for the government of Venice. Attached to the Palace is the prison which we visited. It makes our prisons look like palaces. Very grim and no doubt many to each room. To reach the prison the prisoners were taken from the court over the 'bridge of sigh's to the prison - because they sighed as they had their last look at the lagoon and into darkness. The visit took us ages because the building is so huge.
We found a lunch place recommended by Diego away from the Square and therefore considerably cheaper. Two courses for E13.
The next problem was how to walk across the island to the Natural History Museum without getting lost. It is almost impossible to find your way with a map and you get hopelessly disoriented amongst the canals and narrow alleys. However, we finally twigged that the signs to Ferovia were to the Railway Station which was in the general area we wanted to go. A few rest stops later and sore feet we arrived at the Museum. It was a fine museum showing life throughout earth's history. It was well presented, informative and modern. A part of it had been reserved in the old model that we used to see with museums - large cases with heaps of stuff in them. We think this museum is well worth a visit.
Then, walking once again to the railway station for the one hour+ journey back to Portogruaro by train to walk again to the house. We arrived hot and with sore feet. More than enough walking for one day.
Once again the weather was hot which makes for hot feet and hot body. Not the environment confortable for walking in, or anything else for that matter. A swim in the town pool sounds like a good idea for tomorrow.
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