The Doge's Palace and Its Secret Itineraries

The Doge’s Palace, or Ducal Palace, was for centuries the seat of the Venetian government as well as the official residence of the Doge, the Head of State. The impressive, oriental looking façade of this building encloses two very different and contrasting aspects with regards to its functions.

Most of the rooms and halls of the Doge’s Palace were lavishly decorated with true masterpieces by the greatest artists in town, the like of Titian, Paolo Veronese, Jacopo Tintoretto, and designed to leave a profound impression on all guests and attendees. As a matter of fact  they were actually the chambers where kings, ambassadors and dignitaries of foreign states were welcomed and given audience. Therefore large oil paintings on canvas, frescoes, gilded frames, ancient clocks, inscriptions decorate any single section of their their walls and ceilings. They display the political achievements, the conquests, the self-glorification and the myth of the Republic of Venice.

Yet, alongside this magnificent public scenario, there existed a parallel and scheming world, often concealed behind wooden panels made of boxed-in and cramped offices, bleak and sinister prisons as well as the notorious torture chamber. Indeed, the places of the state civil servants and important officers was not too far from the world of the prisoners.

This is an unforgettable tour of the Doge’s Palace. It will take you from the pomp of stately halls to the gloomy dungeons. From there, Casanova managed a legendary escape over the trusses that cover the ceiling of one of the largest rooms of all times, the Hall of the Major Council.

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PLEASE NOTE: The tour price indicated above is not per person. It is for a party of 1 to 8 participants, and does not include admission fees or transportation costs when applicable. Admission fees to monuments and sites are expressed per person separately. Should your party exceed 8 participants, please contact us for a quote.