St. Mark’s Square in Venice, Italy is one of the most famous and romantic places in the world. In the center of the huge cobblestone courtyard, people buy cones of bird seed to feed the flocks of pigeons that are always there. The square is bordered by ornate buildings that include The Doge’s* Palace and the 10th century Bell Tower (campanile.)

In the evening, café’s around the perimeter provide live classical music for patrons that sit at small, round tables near their establishments. That’s why coffee for two in (the real) St. Marks’ Square can cost $40 US.

 Note: The Doge of Venice was the chief magistrate at a time when the city was called The Most Serene Republic of Venice.

Epcot’s Italy boasts a scaled-down version of the beautiful Bell Tower (campanile) and the pink and white marble façade of the Doge’s Palace. The cobblestone paving is also similar to St. Mark’s Square. Fortunately, the pigeons are not here in great numbers, and a cup of coffee or glass of wine is much more reasonable.

In the middle of the square is the beautiful "Fontana de Neptuno", which is based on Bernini’s Neptune Fountain in Florence.

Gardens:
Since Italy has a Mediterranean climate, landscaping Epcot’s Italy was relatively easy. You’ll find beautiful trees like olives, citrus fruits, cypress and Mediterranean varieties of pine in Italy’s garden.