A Guide to Inside the Doge’s Palace: Why It’s Worth It

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Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Venice’s past by stepping into the Doge’s Palace, an architectural masterpiece that embodies the city’s rich history and culture.

As the heart of political power during the Venetian Republic, the Doge’s Palace offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the Doges who ruled Venice for centuries. 

People often ask me if it is worth it to visit the Doge’s Palace. My answer is always yes, it is totally worth it. 

From the awe-inspiring Scala d’Oro to the infamous Bridge of Sighs, every corner of the palace tells a story. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, the Doge’s Palace promises an unforgettable journey through time. 

So, join me as I explore the many facets of this iconic landmark and discover why the Doge’s Palace is a must-visit on your trip to Venice.

Practical Information Before Visiting the Palazzo Ducale

Admission Prices and What’s Included

Visiting the Doge’s Palace is a must-do when in Venice. The standard ticket price for an adult is €20, while students aged 14-25, and seniors over 65 can enter for €13. Children under 5 and disabled people and their helpers are free.

The ticket provides access to the Doge’s Palace and the combined itinerary of Museo Correr, Museo Archeologico Nazionale and Monumental Rooms of the Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana.

Opening Times and Best Times to Visit

The Doge’s Palace is open to the public year-round, with the exception of Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. The opening hours are from 8:30 am to 7:00 pm from April 1st to October 31st, and from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm from November 1st to March 31st.

The ticket office closes an hour before the museum’s closing time. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Avoiding the weekends and bank holidays is also your best bet.

Guided Tours: Enhancing Your Visit

To enhance your visit, consider booking a guided tour. There are several options available, ranging from general highlights tours to more specific tours focusing on certain aspects of the palace. One that I recommend is the Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica with Terrace Access Tour though there are several others to choose from.

The reason I recommend this tour is because of how much time it saves you and the access to bonus areas such as the terrace in St Mark’s Basilica and other rooms of the Doge’s Palace. Here are some of the highlights:

Tour Highlights:

• Priority entrance to the Doge’s Palace, avoiding long waits.
• Option to choose between a private or shared group experience.
• Exclusive access to the usually off-limits terrace at St. Mark’s Basilica, offering views of Venice’s Lagoon.
• Fascinating anecdotes about Venice’s history and its establishment on a lagoon in the 5th century.
• A visit to the first-floor terrace of St. Mark’s Basilica to see the famous bronze horses and enjoy panoramic views.
• If St. Mark’s Basilica is closed unexpectedly, an alternative visit to the Church of San Zaccaria or the Correr Museum is included.
• Exploration of the Doge’s Palace, including the Chamber of the Great Council and courtrooms, with highlights of frescoes by Tintoretto and the Giants’ Staircase.
• Crossing the infamous Bridge of Sighs to the New Prisons, learning about its history and significance.

The Rich History of the Doge’s Palace

The Doge’s Palace, or Palazzo Ducale, is more than just a beautiful building; it’s a symbol of the Venetian Republic’s power and prestige. Constructed in the 14th century, the palace served as the residence of the Doge, the supreme authority of the former Republic of Venice. It was not only the Doge’s home but also the place where important decisions regarding the fate of the city and its empire were made.

The Doge’s Palace and the Venetian Republic

The Doge’s Palace was the epicenter of the Venetian Republic, a place where politics, justice, and administration intertwined. The palace housed the Doge’s apartments, government offices, courtrooms, and even prisons. It was here that the Great Council, composed of the city’s most influential nobles, would meet to discuss and decide on matters of state. The palace’s grand halls and intricate decorations reflect the Republic’s wealth and power during its golden age.

Famous Doges and Their Impact

Several Doges left their mark on the palace and the city of Venice. One of the most notable was Doge Francesco Foscari, who reigned from 1423 to 1457. His tenure, one of the longest in Venetian history, saw the expansion of Venetian territories and the height of the city’s power. The Foscari Arch, a grand Gothic archway at the entrance of the palace, stands as a testament to his influence.

Another influential Doge was Enrico Dandolo, who led the infamous Fourth Crusade and played a crucial role in the capture of Constantinople in 1204. His tenure significantly expanded Venice’s influence and established it as a major power in the Mediterranean.

The Architecture of the Doge’s Palace

The Doge’s Palace is a testament to the architectural prowess of the Venetians. Its unique design, blending the Gothic and Renaissance styles, creates an awe-inspiring spectacle that leaves visitors spellbound. The palace’s architecture is not just about aesthetics; it’s a reflection of the city’s history, culture, and power.

The Exterior: From Porta Della Carta to Foscari Arch

The exterior of the Doge’s Palace is a visual feast. The main entrance, the Porta Della Carta, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. This gate, adorned with statues and intricate carvings, leads to the inner courtyard. The façade facing the Piazza San Marco is a masterpiece of pink Verona marble and white Istrian stone, punctuated by delicate arches and ornate balconies.

One of the most striking features of the exterior is the Foscari Arch, a grand Gothic archway named after Doge Foscari. The arch, adorned with a statue of Doge Francesco Foscari kneeling before the winged lion of Saint Mark, symbolizes the Doge’s submission to the patron saint of Venice.

The Interior: Scala d’Oro and Beyond

Inside the Doge’s Palace, the grandeur continues. The Scala d’Oro, or Golden Staircase, is a highlight. Designed by the renowned architect Jacopo Sansovino, this lavish staircase is adorned with gilded stucco and leads to the Doge’s apartments and the state rooms.

The palace’s interior is a maze of beautifully decorated rooms, each with its unique features. The Sala del Maggior Consiglio, or Great Council Chamber, is one of the world’s largest rooms, adorned with paintings by masters like Tintoretto and Veronese. The Doge’s apartments, the Sala del Senato, and the Sala delle Quattro Porte are other notable rooms, each telling a different story of Venice’s past.

The Influence of Renaissance Style

While the Doge’s Palace is predominantly Gothic, the influence of the Renaissance style is evident, particularly in the courtyard and the Scala d’Oro. The Renaissance style, characterized by symmetry, proportion, and a focus on light, brought a new dimension to the palace’s architecture. The blend of Gothic and Renaissance elements in the Doge’s Palace creates a unique aesthetic that sets it apart from other historical buildings.

Must-See Highlights of the Doge’s Palace

The Doge’s Palace is a treasure trove of art, history, and architectural beauty. Each room and corridor within the palace holds a unique story, waiting to be discovered. Here are some of the must-see highlights that you shouldn’t miss on your visit.

The Doge’s Throne: Sala del Collegio

The Sala del Collegio is one of the most important rooms in the Doge’s Palace. This room was used for official meetings between the Doge and his council, as well as for receiving foreign ambassadors. The room is richly decorated, reflecting its importance and the significant events that took place within its walls.

The room is adorned with a series of paintings by the artist Tintoretto, including a portrait of the Doge in audience, which depicts the ceremonial aspects of the Doge’s role. The ceiling is a masterpiece in itself, featuring a painting of Jupiter expelling the Vices, symbolizing the justice dispensed by the Doge and his council.

The Doge’s Apartments: A Glimpse into the Past

The Doge’s Apartments, located on the second floor of the palace, offer a fascinating glimpse into the private life of the Doge. These rooms, beautifully decorated with carved ceilings and frescoes by famous artists like Paolo Veronese, were where the Doge lived and conducted official duties. The rooms, with their luxurious furnishings and intricate artwork, could certainly tell a story of times gone by of courtesans and intrigue.

The Grand Council Chamber: The Heart of Political Power

The Sala del Maggior Consiglio, or the Grand Council Chamber, is one of the world’s largest rooms and the heart of political power in the Venetian Republic. This grand hall, adorned with the world’s largest oil painting, “Paradise” by Tintoretto, was where the Great Council, consisting of all the adult male nobles of Venice, met to make decisions. The chamber’s impressive size and decoration reflect the importance of the council’s role in governing the Republic.

The Bridge of Sighs: A Link to the Prisons

The Bridge of Sighs, or Ponte dei Sospiri, is one of the most famous bridges in Venice. This enclosed bridge made of white limestone connects the Doge’s Palace to the New Prisons. The bridge got its name from Lord Byron’s poem “Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage” as he imagined the prisoners sighs as they crossed it and took their last glimpse of the outside world.

Contrary to popular belief, the famous Bridge of Sighs doesn’t lead directly to the prison. It actually leads to an interogation room where the prisoners were usually coerced to give up any of their secrets or confess to crimes they may or may not have commited.

The Courtyard and the Giants’ Staircase

The inner courtyard of the Doge’s Palace is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. The Giants’ Staircase, or Scala dei Giganti, is a highlight of the courtyard. Named for the two large statues of Mars and Neptune that stand at its top, the staircase was the official ceremonial entrance to the palace. It was here that the Doge was presented to the public during the ‘Ducal Inauguration Ceremony’.

Sala dello Scrutinio

The Sala dello Scrutinio, or the Scrutiny Room, is one of the most significant rooms in the Doge’s Palace. This grand hall was where the council members would elect new Doge took place, a process that was incredibly complex and could last for several days.

The room is adorned with a series of paintings that depict the first 76 Doges of Venice, a testament to the city’s rich history and the importance of the role of the Doge.

The most striking feature of the Sala dello Scrutinio is the large painting by Luca Giordano, depicting “The Triumph of Venice.” This masterpiece, which covers the entire end wall of the room, symbolizes the city’s victory over the Turks in the 1660s.

The room also houses other important artworks, including the portraits of the Doges by Tintoretto and his school. Each of these elements contributes to the grandeur and historical significance of the Sala dello Scrutinio, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Doge’s Palace.

Italy’s Most Impressive Ancient Armory

The Armory of the Doge’s Palace is a fascinating exhibit that showcases the military might of the Venetian Republic. This vast collection of arms and armor is one of the most important in Italy, featuring a wide array of weaponry from different periods.

As you walk through the Armory, you’ll see everything from medieval swords and crossbows to firearms from the Renaissance period. Each piece tells a story of Venice’s military history, its technological advancements, and its strategic prowess.

The Armory is not just a display of weapons, but also an architectural marvel. It is located in the eastern wing of the palace, with rooms arranged in a sequence that creates a captivating journey through time. The exhibit is designed to be both educational and awe-inspiring, with detailed descriptions accompanying each display.

The Prison

While the Doge’s Palace is renowned for its grandeur and beauty, it also has a darker side that tells a tale of intrigue, power, and punishment. The palace was not just a place of governance and grand ceremonies; it was also a site of imprisonment and secret policing.

The palace’s prisons, known as the Pozzi, or “the wells,” were located on the lower floors. These dank, dark cells were often flooded, and conditions were harsh for the prisoners held within. The prisons were a stark contrast to the opulence of the palace above.

Connected to the palace via the famous Bridge of Sighs, the New Prisons were a significant improvement over the Pozzi. However, they were still a place of dread for those who found themselves confined within their walls. The bridge itself is said to have earned its name from the sighs of prisoners catching their last glimpse of Venice as they were led to their cells.

The palace was also the base of the Republic’s secret police. The Council of Ten, a political body that held significant power in the Venetian Republic, was known for its extensive network of informants and its ruthless enforcement of the law. The Bocca di Leone, or “Lion’s Mouth” postboxes located throughout the palace, were used by citizens to anonymously accuse others of various crimes.

This darker side of the Doge’s Palace serves as a reminder of the lengths to which the Republic went to maintain power and control. It adds a layer of intrigue to the palace’s history and provides a more complete picture of life in the Venetian Republic.

Tips for Visiting the Palazzo Ducale

Things to Remember: What to Do

1. Do Plan Ahead: Before your visit, research the various sections of the Palazzo Ducale and decide which ones you are most interested in. This will help you make the most of your time there.
2. Do Take a Guided Tour: A guided Doge’s Palace tour can provide valuable insights into the history and significance of the Palace that you might miss if you were exploring on your own.
3. Do Wear Comfortable Shoes: The Palace is expansive, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Comfortable shoes are a must.
4. Do Respect the Rules: The Doge’s Palace is a historical monument, so it’s important to respect the rules. This includes not touching the artwork or the walls, and not using flash photography.
5. Do Take Your Time: The Palace is filled with intricate details and fascinating stories. Don’t rush through your visit; take the time to appreciate the grandeur and history of the place.

What Not to Do

1. Don’t Bring Large Bags or Backpacks: For security reasons, large bags and backpacks are not allowed inside the Doge’s Palace. There are cloakroom services where you can leave your belongings.
2. Don’t Use Flash Photography: Flash photography can damage delicate artwork in the Doge’s Palace. Always turn off your flash when taking pictures.
3. Don’t Touch the Artwork: The oils on human skin can damage the artwork. Always keep a safe distance and never touch the art.
4. Don’t Smoke: Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the Doge’s Palace.
5. Don’t Disrespect the Quiet Zones: Certain areas of the Doge’s Palace are designated as quiet zones. Please respect these areas and keep noise to a minimum.

Wrapping It Up

The Doge’s Palace in Venice is a key spot to visit for anyone interested in the city’s history and beauty. Its stunning design, important art, and rich past make it a highlight. Adding the Palace to your Venice trip makes the whole experience more meaningful. It’s like traveling back in time and seeing Venice through the eyes of its ancient leaders.