Doge’s Palace, Venice

Significance of Doge's Palace in Venice

Doge’s Palace is a beautiful tourist destination that represents Venetian Gothic architecture along the picturesque Grand Canal in Venice. This remarkable building served as the political and administrative hub of the Venetian Republic for many years. It was at this place that the elected Doges of the city conducted their affairs and managed the intricate governance of the Republic. Thus, it is a living example of the rich history, culture, and artistic legacy of Venice.


On your visit to the attraction, you can witness the opulent exteriors decorated with detailed designs and elegant pink and white marble. As soon as you go inside, you will find several rooms that display the tapestry of Venice during its golden age. The walls are embellished with intricate frescoes by renowned artists like Tintoretto and Veronese. When you stroll along the palace, you will learn about the Doge’s Palace history through the vast collection of artworks in the Museo dell'Opera.


The highlight of the palace is the Bridge of Sighs which connects the palace to the adjacent prisons. It was here where the notorious Giacomo Casanova was once held. You can also enjoy the panoramic views from the Golden Staircase and appreciate its timeless beauty from a unique vantage point.

History of the Doge's Palace

When was Doge's Palace built?

The Doge’s Palace Venice's history dates back to the 10th or 11th century when it was constructed as a fortified structure with thick walls and guard towers. In the 12th century, it was rebuilt under Doge Sebastiano Ziani following the destruction of the original palace in a fire. Over the centuries, the palace underwent numerous renovations and expansions, particularly during the 14th and 15th centuries.

Evolution of the Palace
  • The Earliest Doges: It is said that the origins of Venice can be traced back to the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 AD. During this period, the Byzantine Empire exerted significant influence in the region due to the proximity of the city to the Adriatic Sea. In the 9th century, Venice began to assert its independence from the Byzantines. In 810 AD, Doge Angelo Partecipazio made an important decision to relocate the government seat from Malamocco to the Rialto area. This move marked the beginning of Venice as an independent power centre and laid the foundation for the later Doge's Palace in Venice. 


  • The 14th Century Palace: In the 14th century, the Doge's Palace underwent a significant expansion to accommodate a larger legislative assembly. Its construction began around 1340 under the rule of Doge Bartolomeo Gradenigo. The focus was on the side of the palace facing the lagoon. During this time, the Paduan artist Guariento decorated the east wall of the Great Council Chamber with a grand fresco in 1365. On the other hand, the Delle Masegne family embellished the windows. In 1419, the Great Council convened in this chamber for the first time, thereby marking the historical significance of the growth of the palace.


  • The 15th Century: In the 15th century, renovation and expansion of the Doge's Palace continued. In 1424, a new wing was designed by extending the building both towards San Marco Square and the lagoon. The grand Sala dello Scrutinio, which was once a library, was built on the same floor as the Great Council Chamber. Its large windows and pinnacled parapet matched previous decorative motifs. The facade facing the square was embellished with the Porta della Carta, designed by Giovanni and Bartolomeo Bon. Moving forward, the Foscari entrance and arch were added to the design of the palace.


  • 1483 to 1574: A devastating fire occurred in 1483 that destroyed the canal side of the palace, including the Doge’s apartments. Antonio Rizzo introduced Renaissance elements to the building and the reconstruction continued under Maestro Pietro Lombardo until 1510. Maestro Lombardo designed the facade and the Giant's staircase in the internal courtyard. This period also saw the addition of monumental marble statues of Mars and Neptune atop the Giants’ Staircase by Sansovino. However, another fire broke out in 1577 and destroyed numerous artistic masterpieces in the Sala dello Scrutinio and Grand Council Chamber. The palace had been restored to its original state by 1580.
Doge’s Palace Today

Today, the history of Doge’s Palace in Venice Italy offers visitors various ways to explore its rich heritage. You can take a self-guided tour with audio guides or opt for the exclusive 75-minute secret itinerary tour. The secret tour will grant you access to areas like the prison cells of Giacomo Casanova, which are generally not open to the public due to their size.


While exploring, you can also witness the iconic Bridge of Sighs and the stunning Scala d'Oro. You can even wander through the temporary exhibitions at the Doge's apartments that showcase artistic and architectural marvels.

Wonderful Architecture of Doge's Palace

Courtyard

The courtyard in the Doge’s Palace architecture is enclosed on the north side by the connection between the palace and St. Mark's Basilica. At the centre of this courtyard, you will find two striking well-heads from the mid-16th century. A grand ceremonial staircase with the elegant Foscari Arch and alternating bands of Istrian stone and red Verona marble leave a striking impression.


This monumental entrance linked the staircase to the Porta della Carta to create a grand approach from Piazza San Marco into the palace. There is also a Senator’s Courtyard to the right of the Giant’s Staircase, where members of the Senate gathered for government meetings.

Museo dell'Opera

The Museo dell'Opera within Doge's Palace is evidence of the enduring architectural history of the building. When the palace was at risk of falling into disrepair due to fires, structural issues, and evolving needs, a comprehensive restoration project was conducted in 1876. This endeavour involved restoring the facades and capitals, some of which were in a deteriorated state.


These removed capitals, including remarkable 14th and 15th-century Venetian sculptures, were preserved in a designated space, which is known as the Museo dell'Opera. Today, this museum features sculptural treasures in six different rooms, along with fragments of statues and valuable architectural and decorative stone pieces from the facades of the palace.

Doge's apartments

The Doge’s apartments provide a glimpse into the private life of the Venetian rulers. Situated between the Golden Staircase and the apse of St. Mark's Basilica, these apartments offer an escapade to the doge from his role and enjoy family dinners amid furnishings from his own residence. One of the rooms is the Scarlet Chamber, which displays exquisite frescoes by Giuseppe Salviati and Titian.


On the other hand, the Scudo Room displays the coat of arms of the reigning Doge during audience and guest receptions. The Erizzo Room features carved wood ceilings that lead to a rooftop garden via a small staircase.

Institutional chambers

The Doge's Palace Venice consists of a series of institutional chambers that played pivotal roles in the governance of the Venetian Republic. These rooms offer unique insights into the political life of the time. The Square Atrium functioned as a waiting area that showcases biblical stories and allegories by artists like Tintoretto.


On the contrary, the Four Doors Room served as the formal antechamber to crucial halls, featuring richly framed Eastern marble doors. Some of the other significant chambers are the Antechamber to the Hall of the Full College, Council Chamber, Compass Room, and many more.

Old Prison or Piombi

Old Prison or Piombi was constructed to serve the need for prison cells through the 13th and 14th centuries, eventually filling the entire ground floor of the southern wing. These early cells were dark and damp, which gave its name "Pozzi" or the Wells. In 1591, more cells were added in the upper eastern wing, which allowed it to earn its name as "Piombi." Several notable prisoners like Silvio Pellico and Giacomo Casanova were held in this prison.

Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge of Sighs is a famous part of the Doge’s Palace architecture. Built in 1614, this enclosed bridge connects the palace to the New Prisons. It got its name from the supposed sighs of prisoners when they saw the lagoon and San Giorgio through small windows while walking from the courtroom to their prison cells.


On the other hand, the New Prisons were constructed to improve the conditions for prisoners in the mid-16th century. These prisons featured larger, more well-lit, and airy cells, particularly those surrounded by passageways and facing the inner courtyard.

Artworks at the Doge's Palace

Scala Dei Giganti

When you step into the courtyard of the Doge’s Palace, you will find a remarkable artwork known as Scala Dei Giganti. Constructed after the 1483 fire that damaged parts of the palace, this grand staircase holds great historical significance. It served as the backdrop for the coronation ceremonies of newly elected doges for centuries.


You will discover two striking statutes at the pinnacle of this Doge’s Palace artwork, namely Poseidon and Mars. Poseidon symbolizes the maritime trade prowess of Venice, while Mars represents the political prowess of a trading empire of the city. There is a winged lion between them that is the symbol of the patron saint of Venice named St. Mark.

Great Council Chamber

The Great Council Chamber in the Doge's Palace is an extraordinary European room steeped in history and adorned with captivating artworks. Here, the Senate gathered to discuss financial matters and public affairs, and even decide the fates of prisoners. The membership in the council was open to all adult male members of Venetian patrician families, regardless of individual status or wealth.


This room also played a crucial role in the complex process of electing a new doge, designed to discourage cheating. One of the remarkable treasures of the room is Tintoretto's Paradise, which is an enormous oil painting on canvas that portrays an earthly vision of heaven.

Chamber Of Torment

Accessible through Doge’s Palace tour, the Chamber of Torment is a place that strikes fear into the hearts of the accused. At this place, all the types of interrogations and torture were conducted on the prisoners in pitch-black darkness. They would listen to the agonizing screams of fellow inmates while waiting for their turn behind the walls.


Criminals were subjected to a painful ordeal by pulling their arms with ropes while being bound behind their backs. The torture continued until the prisoner admitted to the alleged crime. With its harsh history, the Chamber of Torment serves as a chilling reminder of the justice practices of the past.

Armory

The Armory inside the Doge’s Palace is a fascinating place that houses an array of weapons intended for Venetian soldiers during times of conflict across the centuries. It boasts an extensive collection of over 2000 items, including suits of armour from the 15th and 16th centuries, swords, halberds, quivers, and crossbows. In the first room, you will discover a striking suit of armour that once belonged to the renowned mercenary Erasmo da Narni, also known as il Gattamelata.


Among the many suits of armour, an intriguing miniature suit of armour from the 1515 Marignano battlefield stands out. It is believed that the armour belonged to either a child or a dwarf. You will also come across Turkish-origin armour and weapons acquired during conflicts with the Turks.

Museo Dell’Opera

The Museo Dell’Opera is a museum, which showcases many artworks that were discovered in the restoration project of the Doge’s Palace in 1876. It houses over 42 pieces of decorative capitals that were found in poor condition during the repair work. These capitals were richly decorated and told stories through intricate art, featuring men, women, animals, plants, and more.


They allowed people, even those who could not read, to enjoy and understand stories through art. Therefore, the museum provides a window into the artistic and architectural history of the Doge's Palace.

Golden Staircase

The Golden Staircase is a beautiful Doge’s Palace artwork that served as the passage to the apartments of the doge. Designed by the renowned architect Jacopo Sansovino, this staircase is a masterpiece of ornate decoration. It got its name from the beautifully adorned stucco vault overhead that glistened with golden elegance.


Later, the architecture of the staircase was embellished by several talented artists, including Tiziano Aspetti, Alessandro Vittoria, Giovanni Battista Franco, and Francesco Segala.

Doge's Palace Guided Tours

Doge's Palace Skip The Line Tickets

The Doge’s Palace skip-the-line tickets allow you to take direct access to the stunning history and art of Venice. It lets you avoid the long queues at the ticket counter and marvel at the Gothic architecture of the palace. Through this Doge’s Palace tour, you can encounter sculptures, frescoed ceilings, and paintings by renowned artists in different rooms of the palace. You will also be mesmerized to see the opulent interiors, including the magnificent Golden Staircase from the 15th century. This ticket grants you to access the Bridge of Sighs, roam around St. Mark’s Square, and explore the Monumental Rooms of the Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana.

Doge’s Palace Gondola Tour

The Doge’s Palace Gondola Tour is a 2-in-1 adventure of exploring the tranquil canals of Venice and visiting the Doge’s Palace. This tour lets you stroll around the attraction while diving deep into its history through a helpful guidebook available in multiple languages. You will also gain an in-depth understanding of the Venetian culture, its origins, history, and significance at St. Mark’s Square Museum. Moving forward, you will embark on a relaxing 30-minute Gondola ride, where you can unwind and absorb the serene beauty of Venice. You can even catch a glimpse of famous landmarks like the Rialto Bridge, Bridge of Sighs, New Prisons, Arch of Paradise, Marco Polo’s house, Church of San Zulian, and Church of Miracles along the way.

Doge’s Palace And Saint Mark's Basilica Combo

The Doge’s Palace tour and Saint Mark’s Basilica combo ticket offer access to two of the most iconic landmarks of the city. Through this ticket, you can start your journey in Doge's Palace, where remarkable paintings and architectural marvels narrate the rich tapestry of Venetian history and society. Moreover, you can step into the sacred elegance of Saint Mark's Basilica, which is adorned with breathtaking mosaics and captivating artworks. You will also get a chance to see the dazzling masterpiece of the Pala d'Oro decorated with countless gems and precious stones. As you explore the two attractions, a knowledgeable guide will always accompany you to share fascinating stories about their cultural significance.

Visit Similar Attractions in Italy

St Peter's Basilica

Located in the Vatican City of Rome, St. Peter’s Basilica is a stunning Renaissance-style church. It was built to replace the aging Old St. Peter's Basilica, which dates back to the fourth century. The construction of the present basilica began in 1506 and concluded in 1626, with contributions from renowned architects like Bramante, Michelangelo, Maderno, and Bernini. This church is the largest church by interior space in the world and is renowned for its magnificent architecture. While it is not the mother church of the Catholic Church or the Diocese of Rome's cathedral, it is considered one of the holiest Catholic shrines and a unique Christian landmark. The Catholic tradition believes that it houses the tomb of the first Bishop of Rome, Saint Peter. It serves as a place of pilgrimage and hosts significant ceremonial events presided over by the pope, thereby drawing the attention of large audiences.

Accademia Gallery

Another attraction in Italy is the Accademia Galleria, which is an art museum situated in Florence, Italy. It is most famous for housing the iconic sculpture of David by Michelangelo. Besides this, the gallery is a treasure trove of other sculptures by Michelangelo and a vast collection of paintings by Florentine artists from the 14th to the 17th centuries. On your visit to the attraction, you can see the unfinished Prisoners and a statue of Saint Matthew by Michelangelo. Some of the other artists whose work has been displayed in the gallery are Botticelli, Uccello, Ghirlandaio, and del Sarto. The gallery also houses a remarkable collection of Russian icons gathered by the Grand Dukes of the House of Lorraine. Thus, the Accademia Galleria is a must-visit place for art enthusiasts and history buffs.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Also known as Torre di Pisa, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is an iconic bell tower in Italy. It is renowned for its remarkable tilt of nearly four degrees caused by an unstable foundation. This tower is part of the Pisa Cathedral Square, along with the cathedral and Pisa Baptistry. You will also be astonished to know that the Leaning Tower of Pisa stands at a height of 55.86 metres on the low side and 56.67 metres on the high side. Its base walls are 2.44 metres wide and the weight is estimated at a whopping 14,500 tonnes. Besides being an architectural marvel, it is a symbol of human ingenuity and determination to preserve history while overcoming structural challenges.

Plan Your Visit to Doge's Palace

Location and Timings
How to Reach
Entrance Fees
Dress Code

Location:

  • If you are wondering where is the Doge’s Palace located, it is situated at Piazza San Marco 1, 30124 Venice, Italy. It is perfectly positioned in the city centre of Venice on the renowned St. Mark's Square, which offers beautiful views of St. Mark's Basilica. This attraction is also located close to the Grand Canal.


Opening Hours:

  • The Doge’s Palace hours vary from season to season. It opens from 9 am to 7 pm from 1st April to 31st October, with the last entrance at 6 pm. On the other hand, it operates between 9 am and 6 pm from 1st November to 31st March, with the last entrance at 5 pm. You must also note that the closing procedures start 30 minutes before the official closing time.


Best time to Visit:

  • The best time to visit Doge’s Palace Venice is between April and May and then from September to October. These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more budget-friendly prices compared to the bustling summer peak season. As far as the time of the day is concerned, it is advisable to visit the attraction either early in the morning or late in the evening on a weekday.


Nearby Attractions >>

By Vaporetto (Water Bus):

  • You can take Vaporetto Lines 1, 2, 4.1, 5.1, and 5.2 from St. Mark's Square to San Zaccaria. From there, you can take a short stroll to reach the Doge’s Palace. It will take you approximately 15 minutes to reach your ideal destination while enjoying the views of the architectural wonders of Venice along the way. 


By Water Taxi:

  • If you want a touch of luxury and speed, you can opt for a water taxi to reach Doge’s Palace. You can take one from the Santa Lucia Train Station and travel for about 1.7 km to reach your final destination in about 10 minutes.


By Car:

  • People who prefer to travel by car can navigate their way to St. Mark's Square. Once you reach the square, you can proceed to the Riva degli Schiavoni waterfront promenade and access the Doge’s Palace through the Grain Gateway (Porta del Frumento). This journey will take you around half an hour to travel a distance of 2.1 km to the Doge’s Palace.

The entrance fees for Doge’s Palace range from EUR 38.40 to EUR 92.42 per person. It includes a ticket for fast-track entry to the palace, access to the iconic Bridge of Sighs, and entry to the Armory.


You can also explore the first floor of the Museo Correr, the Archaeological Museum, and the Marciana National Library. An audio guide in a mobile app format for Doge's Palace is also available to provide valuable insights into this historic treasure and enhance your overall experience.






Read More About Doge's Palace Entrances >>

The Doge’s Palace dress code states that you should dress modestly when visiting the attraction. You should avoid wearing beachwear, revealing attire, or clothing that conceals your face. Moreover, you should leave your hats and sunglasses outside while exploring the palace.


All these guidelines related to Doge’s Palace dress code pay homage to the deep cultural significance that the attraction holds. By wearing appropriate attire and comfortable shoes, you not only honour its importance but also help preserve this treasure for future generations.







Read more about the attire guidelines >>

FAQ

Where is Doge's Palace?

Doge’s Palace is located right in the city centre of Venice on the iconic St. Mark's Square. Overlooking the magnificent St. Mark's Basilica, the palace rests at a stone’s throw distance from the picturesque Grand Canal. It is a wonderful arena to explore the rich history and architectural marvels of the city.

When was Doge's Palace built?

Doge’s Palace Venice was constructed in 1341, and it took about 150 years to complete. This long timeline was partly due to the frequent fires in the city, which often required reconstruction. If you look at the palace closely, you can still spot beautiful stone sculptures from the 14th century that tell stories from the Bible.

How much time to visit Doge's Palace?

A visit to the Doge’s Palace typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to see all the highlights of the attraction. Within this time frame, you can easily the marvellous architecture and the interiors of the palace. However, the time you spend can differ depending on your interests and whether you decide to delve deeper into the palace or join guided tours.

Is Doge's Palace worth it?

Yes, Doge’s Palace is worth visiting to learn about the fascinating history of the city. It is a treasure trove of knowledge for both art and architecture enthusiasts. The contrast between the opulent living quarters and grand council chambers will leave a lasting impression. It is a unique expedition that reveals the richness and complexity of the heritage in Venice.

How do I get tickets for Doge's Palace?

You can get tickets for Doge’s Palace either from our website or in person at the ticket counters of the palace. However, it is recommended to book your tickets online with us as it allows you to skip the long queues at the counter and get direct access to the attraction without any hassle.

How much is entry to Doge's Palace in Venice?

The cost of entry to Doge’s Palace in Venice ranges between EUR 13 to EUR 25 per person (approximately INR 1143 to INR 2200 per person). It costs EUR 13 per person for children between 6 to 14 years and senior citizens of 65 years of age. On the contrary, the adults are requested to pay EUR 25 per person.

What to see in Doge's Palace Venice?

On your visit to the Doge’s Palace Venice, you can see grand halls, beautifully adorned chambers, and rooms filled with art, frescoes, and sculptures. You can also discover the iconic Bridge of Sighs that connects the palace to the haunting prisons. This way, you can witness the opulence of the past of Venice and the contrast of its darker moments in the palace.

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