The Splendor and Secrets of the Doge’s Palace

The Doge's Palace—Palazzo Ducale to the Italians—is one of the highlights of any trip to Venice.

Without a doubt, the Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Church, and St. Mark’s Square are the images of Venice that are known throughout the world.

The Doge's Palace is one of those great buildings that exceeds all expectations.

On a sunny day the building appears to float above the Piazza; so typical of Venetian architecture, this whole feeling of light and magnificence is conveyed so effortlessly.

The Doge's Palace - A History of Venice

Notwithstanding the impression of lightness, this is a building where some of the most important decisions in Europe were once taken. The decisions made here affected the entire Mediterranean area.

Initially built as a castle, the whole place burnt down and was reconstructed as the present palace we see today during the 14th century. No one is really sure who designed it, but Filippo Calandario is the most likely candidate.

It was nearly destroyed again by fire in the 16th century. Despite many wishing to replace it with a more classical building, it was thankfully restored faithfully.

The one or two minor classical additions, here and there, do nothing to detract from the previous design.

Open most days, a tour around the Doge's Palace is a must. The palace was not only a palace but also the seat of government, home of the law courts, and a prison.

A tour encompasses all of this, from the torture chamber through to the Great Council Halls.  The system of government with its checks and balances on the Doges is fascinating and was put in place to keep the Doges from becoming dictators.

Only a few really tried to overcome this; Marino Faliero is perhaps the most famous of those who tried to change the system, and bucking the system was really not a good idea in those days, as there was accountability for leaders who started to think they were kings.  You will see that where his picture should be in the Sala del Maggior Consiglio, there is only a black space. He was condemned to be erased from living memory and was mutilated and executed.

Our Doge’s Palace Tips

Tip 1

If you find yourself in Venice during the peak summer season, the lines to the Doge’s Palace can be daunting—almost always long. A smart alternative is to buy the Musei di Piazza San Marco ticket at the Correr Museum.

This ticket not only gives you access to the Correr Museum, home to masterpieces by Venice’s leading artists from the 16th century onward, but also lets you enter the Doge’s Palace without queuing again. Simply use the side entrance and save yourself a lot of hassle while enjoying some of Venice’s most iconic art and history.

Tip 2

If you really want to get the most out of your limited time in Venice, join the tour called Skip the Line.  You'll discover a wealth of things you'd never discover on your own. Try to book a few days before you visit.

For some very unique ways to discover Venice, click here.


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