Piazzetta dei Leoncini

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The Piazzetta dei Leoncini, which lies on the north side of the Basilica San Marco, is named after the two marble lions, which were carved by Giovanni Bonazza in 1722. For almost three centuries the lions have been very popular with young Venetians, who sit on their backs. 

The well-head is the work of Andrea Tirali and also dates back to 1722. 

The piazzetta provides a second access to the basilica through the 13th century Porta dei Fiori, which is decorated with a beautiful Romanesque relief of the Nativity. 

​Further along the wall of the basilica lies the tomb of Daniele Manin, the leader of Venice's abortive uprising (1848/9) against Austrian rule. 

The lions of the Piazzetta dei Leoncini

Porta dei Fiori