Venice At War

The flag of Venice uses one symbol—the Lion of Saint Mark—but in two modes:

1. Lion with an open book (LIBER)

Book shows the words “Pax tibi Marce, evangelista meus.”

This is the peace-time flag.

Symbolises Venice as a lawful, commercial, diplomatic republic.

Used on state buildings, merchant ships, and most civic occasions.

2. Lion with a sword

The lion holds a drawn sword instead of an open book.

This is the war-time or military flag.

Used historically by the Venetian navy and army.

Symbolises defence, sovereignty, and martial authority.

The flag of Venice uses one symbol—the Lion of Saint Mark—but in two modes: 1. Lion with an open book (LIBER) Book shows the words “Pax tibi Marce, evangelista meus.” This is the peace-time flag. Symbolises Venice as a lawful, commercial, diplomatic republic. Used on state buildings, merchant ships, and most civic occasions. 2. Lion with a sword The lion holds a drawn sword instead of an open book. This is the war-time or military flag. Used historically by the Venetian navy and army. Symbolises defence, sovereignty, and martial authority.

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Venice At War

Venice At War