The Campanile of St Mark has had to undergo a number of adversities and changes in order to acquire the look we know today. Its construction began in the 9th Century and lasted approximately 300 years, during which it was constantly being expanded and refurbished. After disasters like fires and earthquakes, the work was finally finished and the tower acquired its present form in 1514. The Campanile consisted of a tall quadrangular tower with five bells and various ornaments, topped by a pyramidal spire with a wind vane in the form of archangel Gabriel. During the 16th Century in the base of St Mark's Campanile was built a loggetta, designed by Sansovino, that housed the Doge's troops. Over the course of time, it was often necessary to refurbish and even rebuild this spectacular landmark.

The most dramatic moment in its history was on July 14, 1902 when the structure collapsed due to huge cracks in the walls. The local government decided to rebuild the tower so that is was characteristic of Venice exactly as it was before the demolition, and on April 25, 1912, the day of St Mark, the replica was officially inaugurated. St Mark's Campanile is not only merely one of the major monuments and tourist attractions of the 'Queen of the Adriatic', but also a model for the construction of many bell and clock towers worldwide, including those in Seattle and Berkeley in the USA.