Floors and mosaics of Venice landmark damaged by saltwater. The highest tide to hit Venice in more than 50 years has caused “irreparable damage” to St Mark’s Basilica, according to the Patriarch of Venice, Bishop Francesco Moraglia.

The structural damage caused by the floods is compounded by the fact that the saltwater will result in significant damage to the mosaics and floors, once it dries, said Bishop Moraglia.
Describing it as a “world monument”, Bishop Moraglia called on the Italian government help to restore the landmark church, which dates back to 1092.
The lagoon city has been hit by the second highest tide in more than 50 years, submerging St Mark’s Square by over one meter of water.