Italy stamps year 1912 The Campanile in Venice

Italy stamps year 1912 The Campanile in Venice

The Campanile di San Marco (St. Mark’s Campanile) in Venice is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city and a symbol of Venetian history and culture. Here’s an overview:

Key Features of the Campanile

• Location: Situated in St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), it stands near St. Mark’s Basilica and overlooks the lagoon.
• Height: Approximately 98.6 meters (323 feet), making it one of the tallest structures in Venice.
• Construction: The original structure dates back to the 9th century but was rebuilt and modified several times over the centuries.

Historical Highlights

1. Origins:
   • Originally built as a watchtower and lighthouse to guide ships safely into Venice’s harbor.
   • The first iteration was completed in the early Middle Ages and served military and navigational purposes.
2. Reconstruction and Renaissance Modifications:
   • During the 16th century, under the direction of Jacopo Sansovino, the tower underwent significant renovations, including the addition of the elegant belfry and the gilded angel at its peak.
3. Collapse and Reconstruction:
   • On July 14, 1902, the Campanile tragically collapsed due to structural weaknesses but caused no fatalities.
   • It was reconstructed “as it was, where it was” (Italian: com’era, dov’era), using modern materials and techniques, and completed in 1912.