If you are planning a trip to Venice, you should definitely consider visiting Doge's Palace. It is a beautiful and opulent building that you will love to explore.
Its history is interesting and mysterious, but to get the most out of your visit, you should book a guided tour. Otherwise, you will miss out on spectacular areas that are only open to tours.
1. The Bridge of Sighs
The Bridge of Sighs is an iconic Venice landmark that connects the Doge’s Palace to the historic prison across the canal. This baroque structure was crafted in 1600 by Antonio Contin.
The name of the bridge comes from the legend that prisoners would cross it and see the outside world for the last time, sighing. Today, this historical bridge is a popular attraction for hundreds of tourists.
2. The Scala Ord’o
The Scala Ord’o, or the Golden Staircase, is one of the most aesthetically pleasing areas inside Doge's Palace. Its ornately decorated stucco vault in gold is said to have taken four years to complete.
This majestic chamber was restructured in the 14th century and is filled with paintings by many famous artists such as Gentile da Fabriano, Pisanello, Alvise Vivarini, Carpaccio, Bellini, Pordenone, and Titian.
3. The Sala del Maggior Consiglio
The Sala del Maggior Consiglio is the most important room in the Doge’s Palace. It houses paintings and artifacts that reflect Venice’s history, from its Gothic foundation to its Renaissance splendour.
The building was constantly renovated and expanded over the centuries as the republic grew. One of the most famous artworks in this space is Tintoretto’s Paradise, which depicts heaven on earth.
4. The Sala del Collegio
The Sala del Collegio is one of the most popular sights in Doge’s Palace. It is a room in which the doge used to meet his ambassadors.
This room is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It features white limestone walls with pink marble and intricately carved columns. It also has huge windows and sculptures.
5. The Sala del Senato
Doge’s Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks of Venice. It is a Gothic masterpiece with a long history of constructions, demolitions, alterations and additions.
This building is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to several artworks from great Italian artists such as Hieronymus Bosch, Vittore Carpaccio, Palma il Giovane and more!
6. The Scuola di San Rocco
The Scuola di San Rocco is one of Venice’s six Scuole Grandi, and is the best-preserved example. Its main hall, the Sala Terra, houses Tintoretto’s most famous works, and its upper hall features vivid scenes from the Old Testament.
The Scuola Grande di San Rocco is a great place to learn about Venice’s history and culture, and to explore some of its most important religious art. The scuola also houses a rich collection of works by Tiziano, Giorgione and Tiepolo.
7. The Scuola di San Giovanni Evangelista
One of the most beautiful scuole in Venice, this church was designed by Palladio. You can reach the top of the belltower for an incredible view of Venice and the island grounds.
The church is home to several masterpieces by artists such as Titian and Palma il Giovane. The interior is also full of history.
8. The Scuola di San Giovanni Battista
In this imposing Venetian palace, you can see some of the best works of Renaissance painter Tintoretto. The ceilings and walls are covered with his famous cycles on the Old and New Testament.
The Doge’s palace is a great place to spend an afternoon, especially if you like history and art. It has several rooms, including the Sala del Collegio, which was a room where foreign ambassadors would meet the Doge.
9. The Scuola di San Giorgio
Located in Castello, this building has an overall Renaissance vibe with its polychrome marble statues and pilasters. The facade also features two notable reliefs by Tullio Lombardo – The Miracle of Saint Mark Healing the Hand of the Shoemaker Anianus and The Baptism of Anianus.
The Scuola di San Giorgio is a must-visit destination for those who love art! The interior of the building is adorned with paintings by Tintoretto, which are truly incredible.
10. The Scuola di San Marco
The Scuola di San Marco is one of the most popular attractions in Venice. It’s a beautiful palace filled with ornate features and artworks.
It is a must visit site for all tourists to have an amazing time in Venice. The paintings and ceilings are adorned with works by Titian and Tintoretto.