Skip the ticket line to visit one of the most famous monuments in Venice
‘The Doge’ was historically the highest official in the republic of Venice between the 8th century to the 18th century. The last Doge of Venice was Ludovico Manin and he abdicated in 1797 when Napoleon and his soldiers entered Venice, bringing an end to the tradition.
The Doge’s Palace was home of the Doge and office of various government positions and now is one of the greatest tourist attractions in Venice and offers quite simply stunning architecture covering several periods including Gothic and Renaissance. The palace has suffered several fires over the centuries with varying levels of damage with some areas rebuilt over the course of its history due to them.
The Doge’s Palace had always been used for multiple purposes including living quarters and the seat of the government along with the city’s courtrooms and originally the city prison. However, in the 16th century the addition of the new prisons was requested, and those prisons were then linked to the Doge’s Palace by the now famous ‘Bridge of Sighs’ named so because of the noise and expression the prisoners made as they passed over it when going from court to prison.
Traditions says if a couple kisses whilst passing under the Bridge of Sighs on a gondola, the couple will enjoy eternal love!
Doge’s Palace – UNESCO World Heritage Site
Doge’s Palace was listed by UNESCO World Heritage in 1996 as part of the St. Mark’s Square listing.
The History of Doge’s Palace
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1. How long does it take to visit Doge’s Palace?
- It’s entirely up to you, however, we would suggest at least 2 hours which gives you enough time to see it all and enjoy it.
2. Is Doge’s Palace accessible to wheelchair users?
- There are a few areas that aren’t wheelchair accessible, including the prisons, the armoury and the Bridge of Sighs.
- There is a lift to access the upper floor.
3. What are the dress requirements for Doge’s Palace?
- Beachwear or skimpy clothing is not allowed and you may be denied access. You must remember that Doge’s Palace is a location of deep historical and cultural importance so please dress respectfully.