Venice's symbol, the winged lion statue, comes to life

More about Venice's symbol, the winged lion statue, comes to life

n 1264, a spectacular comet appeared in the sky, which was visible for a while in the constellation Leo and was interpreted by many as a "winged lion" due to its wing-like plume.
Doge Reniero Zeno's reaction: Influenced by the comet, Zeno revived the cult of St. Mark, introduced the Apparitio festival, and reinforced the use of the symbol.
Around 1268, the famous bronze statue was erected at the port, depicting a lion of ancient origin, complete with wings - this became the official symbol of Venice.
The winged lion not only functioned as a religious symbol, but also expressed the power, independence and connection of the Venetian Republic with Saint Mark.

The Latin inscription on the book reads: PAX TIBI MARCE EVANGELISTA MEVS (“Peace be with you, Mark, my evangelist”) – this sentence, according to legend, was spoken at the tomb of Saint Mark when an angel appeared to the Venetians.