The two granite columns surmounted by the Lion of St. Mark and the statue of St. Theodore were brought from Constantinople. The most glamorous Venetian shops are to be found in the central triangle determined by San Marco, the Rialto, and the Accademia. You will find plenty of temptation under the arcades of Piazza San Marco, in the Mercerie, Frezzeria, Calle Vallaresso, Salizzada San Moise, Calle Larga XXII Marzo and in the narrow streets around the Fenice. But when shopping, as when sightseeing, it pays to wander off the beaten track. There are beguiling small shops and artisans' botteghe all over the city.
Prices are sometimes negotiable.
Don't, however, expect many bargains. Venice is now one of the most expensive shopping cities in Europe.