The Procuratie Vecchie plays an important role in the architecture of Piazza San Marco, Venice. Built in 1225 as part of Doge Jacopo Tiepolo’s grand vision for the square, it was originally used as a government office and residence for Venice’s highest officials. The three-story structure is connected to both the Palazzo Ducale and Basilica di San Marco, forming an impressive gateway into the piazza. It also houses some of the most famous shops in Venice, including Antico Caffè Florian and Quadri Ristorante. The upper floor features Venetian Gothic windows that provide beautiful views of the cityscape beyond. Its arcades form one side of a large open space where visitors can sit and enjoy watching street performers or admiring St Mark’s Campanile in the distance. As such, the Procuratie Vecchie serves as an iconic landmark at Piazza San Marco and continues to play an important role today by providing tourists with stunning architectural features and picturesque views of one of Italy’s most beloved cities.