The Doge’s Palace, or Palazzo Ducale, is a gorgeous Venetian Gothic structure on Saint Mark’s Square. It has served as the residence and power center of the Doge, the leader of the Most Serene Republic of Venice, for over 1,100 years.
History of the Doge’s Palace
The Doge’s Palace was where the political bodies of the state, including the Great Council (Maggior Consiglio) and the Council of Ten, convened. It featured law courts, administrative offices, courtyards, grand stairways, ballrooms, and prisons on the ground floor. The infamous Bridge of Sighs connects the palace to the Prigioni Nuove (New Prisons), which were constructed in the late 16th century.
Historical records indicate that the original Ducal Palace was built around the late 10th century, though much of it underwent significant reconstruction. The recognizable Gothic façade facing the water began construction in 1340, aimed at housing the meeting chamber for the Great Council.
Throughout the centuries, the Doge’s Palace expanded, especially following destructive fires in 1574 and 1577. Prominent Venetian architects and painters, such as Filippo Calendario and Antonio Rizzo, contributed to its ornate interior design.
As Venice’s most vital secular building, the Doge’s Palace acted as the home and headquarters of the Venetian Republic for around 700 years until 1797, when Napoleon took control. In 1923, it became a public museum, attracting visitors eager to see its elaborate architecture and priceless artworks by renowned Venetian masters like Titian, Veronese, Tiepolo, and Tintoretto.
An Unforgettable Visit
Guests can still walk through the opulent hallways of the Doge’s Palace, evoking the whispers of conspiratorial politicians from centuries past. Today, it stands as a prominent museum of Venice, one of eleven operated by the Fondazione Musei Civici di Venezia.
When planning your visit, it is advisable to set aside ample time to fully explore this magnificent site. Familiarize yourself with the palace and identify key highlights to ensure a rewarding experience.
Visitor Information
Location: San Marco, 1, Venice
Hours:
From April 1 to October 31: 8:30 am – 9 pm (last admission 8:30 pm) Sunday to Thursday, and 8:30 am – 11 pm (last admission 10:30 pm) Friday and Saturday.
From November 1 to March 31: 8:30 am – 7 pm (last admission 6:30 pm) daily. Closed January 1 and December 25.
More Information: Visit the official website or call (+39) 041-2715-911.
Admission: For ticket prices, please inquire at the ticket window. A Saint Mark’s Square Museums Pass costs €25 and includes entry to the palace and three additional museums; it is valid for three months. Reduced prices are available for visitors over 65. The Doge’s Palace is also part of the Museum Pass, which costs €35, providing access to 11 museums over six months.
Buying Tickets in Advance: It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance through the Doge’s Palace website.
Tours: The Secret Itineraries Tour is especially popular, offering access to hidden passageways, dungeons, an interrogation room, and the significant Bridge of Sighs. Reservations are required and can be made through the official site.
