St Marks Clocktower

The clock then again known as St Mark's Clocktower or the Moors' Clocktower shows the time of day, the overwhelming indication of Zodiac and the current phase of the moon - it's a phenomenally elaborate timepiece. The clock satisfied a resolutely pragmatic part in what was a strong maritime empire in hundreds of years past.

Seafarers setting out from the Grand Canal could depend on this flawless timepiece to choose the most favourable time for setting to ocean. So dependable is the clock, that in 1858 it was made the official timekeeper of Venice - to which each other clock ought to be set.

The clocktower wears its imagery on its veneer and patient and observant visitors can select a significant part of the self-image of medieval Venice from here.