Venice 2025: PortadellaCarta
A detailed view of theĀ Porta della CartaĀ (Paper Gate), the ceremonial entrance to theĀ Doge's Palace. Considered a masterpiece of the Venetian Gothic style, serving as the link between the palace and St. Mark's Basilica.
The Lion of Saint Mark:Ā Directly above the gateway is a prominent sculpture of a winged lionāthe symbol of Veniceākneeling before Doge Francesco Foscari. This symbolizes the Doge's devotion to the state.
The Ornamentation:Ā The gate is framed by highly decorative pinnacles and intricate stone tracery. Above the main window, there is a circular bust of St. Mark himself.
Allegorical Figures:Ā Flanking the entrance are four statues housed in niches, representing the cardinal virtues:Ā Fortitude, Temperance, Justice, and Charity.
The Gateway:Ā The dark, arched passage leads into the courtyard of the palace, where theĀ Giants' StaircaseĀ can be seen peeking through the background.
(notes provided by Google Gemini, the AI arm of Google)
