The History of Palazzo Ducale

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Doge’s Palace

Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) holds a privileged place on the waterfront displaying the intricacy and pompousness of its Gothic confections to all visitors arriving in Venice from the sea. Its geometrically captivating facade of pale pink Veronese marble and white Istrian stone features white pinnacles that remind of a delicate icing on a wedding cake.

It is an unlikely home for the political and administrative power of the government though, unmistakably a Venetian one. Yet, behind all that romantic glamour lie the former rooms of state, council chambers, courts, prisons, as well as Doge’s private apartments.

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The History of Palazzo Ducale

This waterfront location assumed its role as the seat of the Venetian government in 810. Nonetheless, it wasn't until the 10th century it also became Doge’s official residence.

At first, the building was a more fortress-like wooden palace, hence it fell victim to common Venetian fires. Gradually, the growing economic and political power of Venice created the need for a more imposing palace to showcase Venice’s riches. Hence, the palace underwent several renovations until the construction of the present-day Palazzo Ducale in mid 14th century.

It took a long century and a half to fully finish the palace. This was partly because of the frequent fires very common for Venice at the time. At last, in 1424, the palace gained its final form (of course, give-or-take several major fires and subsequent refurbishments).

Tips for Your Visit

Purchasing a standard ticket to the Doge’s Palace lets you access the grand central courtyard, Museo dell’Opera, and the key part of the palace leading through the staterooms, armory, institutional rooms, and prisons. The Doge’s Apartments currently serve to display temporary art exhibitions and so are ticketed separately. If you wish to visit the smaller rooms of the palace unfit for the crowds, you need book a special tour.

The most imposing parts of the palace are on the top floor. Climb up the luminous Scala d’Oro (Golden Staircase) and enter the rooms adorned with stunning decor. It’s in these rooms, the ambassadors awaited their ducal audiences humbled by the display of wealth, power, luxury, and craft.