The unique architectural ensemble of Piazza San Marco is created by the mirror-image buildings of the Old and New Procuracies – palazzi built to house the procurators – the most important and influential people in the city after the doge.
Despite the fact that the two structures are very similar, the difference between the years of their construction is almost 3 centuries: the Old Procuracies, the ones near the Clock Tower, were erected back in the 12th century, while the New ones, the ones on the side of the Campanile, only began to be built in 1582. But, admit it, a three-century difference should have been reflected in the architecture, yet these buildings are like twins!
The explanation for this mystery can be found in the annals of Venice's history – at the beginning of the 16th century, as a result of a major fire, the building of the Old Procuracies was significantly damaged. According to the design of the architect Mauro Codussi, it was possible to restore it, reconstruct it somewhat, and also add a third floor, which it had not had before.
Today, the Old Procuracies are a beautiful long building, on the ground floor of which there are numerous shops and cafes, including the legendary Quadri restaurant. The upper floors are usually less interesting to tourists – they house the offices of various companies and departments of the Venice administration.
