CONFIRMING STATEMENT


This Statement confirms that the undersigned has authorized and designated D. Michael
Jones, Anne G. Waleski, Anna M. King, or Donna L. Strauss (each an "Authorized
Signer") to execute and file (in any permitted format) on the undersigned's behalf all
forms 3, 4 and 5 (including any amendments thereto) that the undersigned may be
required to file with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission as a result of
the undersigned's ownership of, or transactions in, securities of Markel Corporation.
Any such previous authorization is hereby revoked.  Each Authorized Signer is
authorized to obtain CIK and EDGAR access codes and take all such other actions as
may be necessary or desirable to permit electronic filings of such forms.  The authority of
each Authorized Signer under this Statement shall continue until the undersigned is no
longer required to file forms 3, 4 or 5 with regard to the undersigned's ownership of, or
transactions in, securities of Markel Corporation, unless earlier revoked in writing.  The
undersigned acknowledges that none of the Authorized Signers or Markel Corporation
are assuming any of the undersigned's responsibilities to comply with Section 16 of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934.


Date: June 15, 2012					/s/ Anthony F. Markel
							Signature

							Anthony F. Markel
							Print Name