Piazza San Marco has been closely associated with the Venetian Republic since its construction in the 9th century. It was originally used as a public gathering place for citizens to discuss politics and listen to speeches from their leaders. Over time, it became an iconic symbol of Venice’s republican government and a visual representation of the city’s status as an independent maritime power. The Piazza is also home to several important monuments that honor key figures in Venetian history, such as Doge Francesco Foscari and his successors who helped shape the city into one of Europe’s most influential republics. The piazza is therefore seen as both a physical reminder of Venice’s past glory, as well as an embodiment of its commitment to freedom and self-governance throughout its centuries-long reign over the Adriatic Sea.