What is the Legend of the Four Horses?
The legend of the four horses in Piazza San Marco, Venice dates back to 1204. It is said that the bronze horses atop St Mark’s Basilica were taken by Venetian merchants from Constantinople during the Fourth Crusade and brought back to Venice as a symbol of their victory. The legend states that they are magical creatures with supernatural powers and were created by Saint Luke himself. According to tradition, these four horses represent justice, peace, faith and charity. They have been seen galloping across the sky at night and each one brings good luck to those who witness them.