Who was San Marco?
Mark was a disciple of Saint Peter (one of the first to be baptized by Peter), a witness to the life of Jesus Christ. He was sent to Egypt to spread the word of God. He died a martyr on April 25, 68 A.D. tied to a rope and dragged by a horse. The first church in honor of San Marco was built in 828 and replaced in 832. Due to a serious fire the church was destroyed and the relics of the Saint lost, The current version of the Basilica was built in 1094 and a legend tells that during the consecration (June 25) it broke the marble of an ancient column and came out a box containing the relics of the Saint.
Why is Saint Mark represented by a coat of arms with a winged lion?
A legend tells that while Saint Mark was sailing towards Alexandria in Egypt he came across a strong storm. He sought shelter near Rialto in a fishermen’s hut. While he was resting, an angel appeared to him in a dream represented by a winged lion who told him PAX TIBI MARCE EVANGELISTA MEU, HIC REQUISCET CORPUS TUUM (peace to you, Mark my Evangelist. Here he will rest your body). When Mark awoke, he told the fishermen about the dream and then went on to Alexandria.
The LION is a symbol of St. Mark and the power of Venice. The wings represent spiritual elevation. The book combines culture and peace. The sword, on the other hand, when present, indicates strength and justice. The Serenissima loved to describe itself as: Strong and just, powerful, spiritual and wise.
In ancient times on the occasion of this festival the Doge together with the major authorities of the state paraded in procession through the streets of the city. Today there is a celebration presided over by the Patriarch and the Festa di San Marco award is given to all the Venetians who have distinguished themselves throughout the year.
