All the greater pity then that it was obscured behind scaffolding for so long - undergoing a major renovation. Now though, this extraordinarily elaborate timepiece is on public show again, in full working order, and delighting visitors and Venetians alike, as it has done for more than 500 years.

You can view a short video of the clocktower on our blog.

Please note that the inside of the building is cramped, and the (spiral) stairs between the five levels are both narrow and steep. For this reason, children under the age of six are not permitted to take the tour, neither are people of reduced mobility. Furthermore, the tour is not recommended should you be pregnant, or suffer from vertigo, claustrophobia or cardio-vascular complications.

This ticket also allows entrance to the Museo Correr.