Torre dell'Orologio (Clock Tower)

Description:

• As you enter the magnificent Piazza San Marco, it is one of the first things you see, standing on the north side, next to and towering above the Procuratie Vecchie (the ancient administration buildings for the republic). The Renaissance tower was built in 1496, and the clock mechanism of that same period still keeps perfect time -- and a lengthy restoration that finished in 2005 has helped keep the rest of the structure in top shape. The two bronze figures, known as "Moors" because of the dark color of the bronze, pivot to strike the hour. The tower has always been a favorite punto di incontro ("meet me at the tower") for Venetians and is the entryway to the ancient Mercerie (from the word for merchandise), the principal souklike retail street of both high-end boutiques and trinket shops that zigzags its way to the Rialto Bridge. Guided tours are required and are included in the price of entrance.

• © Frommer's 2012