Statue of the Lion of St. Mark

Large statue hand-carved in Vicenza stone, reproduced by Peotta Bruno & Geom. Luigi Srl.

Dimensions: height cm. 210

The statue of the Lion of St. Mark is one of the most recognizable symbols of Venice and represents the emblem of the ancient Republic of Venice, as well as the evangelical symbol of St. Mark the Evangelist, the patron saint of the city.

The winged lion — often depicted with a halo, a book, and its forepaws firmly planted on it — embodies the strength, wisdom, and justice of the Serenissima. The open book, engraved with the phrase "Pax tibi Marce, evangelista meus" ("Peace be to you, Mark, my evangelist"), symbolizes peace and the city's evangelical mission; when the book is closed or the sword is present, it indicates times of war or military power.

The most famous representation of the Lion of Saint Mark is found on the granite column in the Piazzetta San Marco, in front of the Doge's Palace. This bronze sculpture, of ancient origin and likely adapted in the Middle Ages, shows the lion with outstretched wings and a solemn expression, facing the sea, as if protecting the city and its commerce.

Over the centuries, the lion of St. Mark became the official emblem of the Republic of Venice, appearing on seals, flags, coins, and palaces throughout its former dominion, from Istria to the Mediterranean islands. Today, it remains a powerful symbol of identity, linked to the historical grandeur, freedom, and pride of the Venetian people.

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