San Marco was officially the doge’s (duke’s) chapel until 1807, and the doge’s far-reaching influence is highlighted by gilt bronze horses in the Galleria , upstairs in the Bascilica di San Marco. Through the Galleria you can access the Loggia dei Cavalli , where reproductions of the bronze horses gallop off the balcony over Piazza San Marco. Note that you’ll need to be dressed modestly (ie knees and shoulders covered) to enter the basilica, and large bags must be left around the corner off Piazzetta San Marco dei Leoni at Ateneo di San Basso, where you’ll find free one-hour baggage storage .
