Venice Hotels near Clocktower in Piazza San Marco

History of the Clocktower in Piazza San Marco

The Clock Tower was built in the 12th century. There are bells in the tower that used to signify different things to the locals. The bells were originally used to announce danger to the troops. They also had other functions: one was to signal the beginning and end of the working day, the 2nd rang every hour, a 3rd called the Senators to the Doges Palace, the 4th summoned magistrates and the 5th smallest bell rang to announce an execution of a prisoner who dangled in cages halfway up the tower's walls. Nowadays the bells are still rung but just for the tourists. In July 1902, the Clock Tower fell in on itself and was later rebuilt in exactly the same manner and is a replica of its earlier design, except a bit shorter than the original.

You can climb the stairs or take the elevator to the top observation deck of the Clock Tower. Its 98 meters, or 322 feet, high so it provides views for the tourist you’d never see from anywhere else in Venice. It’s definitely worth the price of admission at 8 Euros per person. To avoid the long lines and crowds, plan to visit the Clocktower right after it opens in the morning or before it closes in the early evening. Its open 9am-7pm daily. Closing hours fluctuate with the seasons so check first before going.

Accommodations in Piazza San Marco

The Westin Europa & Regina is a five star hotel only steps away from Piazza San Marco, shopping, and sits on the beautiful Grand Canal. There is a gourmet restaurant on site that serves local cuisine, and a bar for an evening cocktail. You can even enjoy swimming pools and a private beach at the sister hotels on Venice Lido – The Westin Excelsior and the Hotel Des Bains.