Step into the entrance of the Merceria and you will be greeted by the fascinating Torre dell’ Orologio, which is also known as St Mark’s Clocktower. The building itself is early Renaissance, and is located on the northern part of the Piazza San Marco. Two huge bronze figures stand at the peak of the tower, cutting an impressive figure. They are known as the Moors and they strike the hours on the bell. They also carry great symbolic meaning — one is old while the other is young, which symbolises the passing of time. Don’t forget to gaze at the beautiful winged Lion of Saint Mark, which has an open book next to it. The sculpture stands before a cerulean backdrop marked with glittering stars, and is the perfect model for photographs.

If you visit on Epiphany (6 January) or Ascension Day (the Thursday 40 days after Easter), you will get to witness an unforgettable sight of the three Magi going around the gallery. Led by an angel with a trumpet, the three figures of the wise men will bow before the Virgin and the child before disappearing through a door. This is indeed a wondrous tower, and worth a visit.