The most fascinating fact about the Doge's Palace is that two of the columns on its upper loggia are made of red Verona marble, while the rest are white Istrian stone. It was between these two red columns that death sentences were publicly announced by the Republic of Venice, serving as a grim reminder of state justice to the crowds below in the Piazzetta.
A palace built like no other
The Doge's Palace is a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture, a style that blends traditional Gothic arches with Byzantine and Moorish influences. Unlike many European palaces, its design is famously 'upside-down'. The massive, solid wall of the upper story rests on two levels of delicate, open-air arcades and loggias, creating an illusion of lightness that defies gravity and is a testament to the skill of its 14th-century builders.
Secrets of the palace and prisons
Beyond its grand halls, the palace concealed the darker side of Venetian power. It housed not only the government but also courtrooms, administrative offices, and prisons. A visit today often includes crossing the famous Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the New Prisons, and exploring the grim cells, offering a complete picture of Venetian society.
10 surprising facts about the Doge's Palace
- The Red Columns of Justice: As mentioned, two prominent columns on the balcony facing the Piazzetta are made of red marble. Death sentences were read out from this spot, and the Doge would sit between them during state ceremonies.
- Casanova's Great Escape: The infamous adventurer and writer Giacomo Casanova was imprisoned in the palace's high-security prison, known as the Piombi or 'the Leads', in 1755. He achieved legendary status by staging a daring and complex escape through the roof, a story he later detailed in his memoirs.
- The World's Largest Oil Painting: The Great Council Chamber (Sala del Maggior Consiglio) is home to 'Il Paradiso' by Tintoretto. Measuring approximately 22 by 7 metres (72 by 23 feet), it is one of the largest oil paintings on canvas in the world.
- A Missing Doge: Along the frieze in the Great Council Chamber are portraits of the first 76 Doges of Venice. However, one space is covered by a black veil. This marks the spot where Doge Marin Faliero's portrait should be; he was executed for treason in 1355 and condemned to be forgotten.
- The Bridge of Sighs: The iconic bridge, built in 1614, has a romantic name but a somber purpose. It connects the interrogation rooms in the palace to the New Prisons. The 'sighs' were said to come from prisoners catching their last glimpse of beautiful Venice before being incarcerated.
- The Secret Itineraries Tour: Special guided tours can take you through hidden passageways and secret rooms not accessible with a standard ticket. These include torture chambers, the Doge's private chancellery, and Casanova's prison cell.
- The Paper Gate: The main public entrance to the palace is called the Porta della Carta ('Paper Gate'). It likely earned its name because this was where official decrees and laws were posted for the public to read.
- An Architectural 'Miracle': The palace's unique structure, with its heavy upper floor seemingly floating on delicate lower arcades, was an engineering marvel. It was made possible by using light materials like hollow terracotta bricks for the upper walls and strong Istrian stone for the columns below.
- It Was More Than a Home: The palace was the complete civic and administrative hub of the Venetian Republic. It contained the Doge's private apartments, courtrooms, government ministries, a hall of justice, and prisons all under one roof.
- It Became a Museum in 1923: After the fall of the Venetian Republic in 1797, the palace served various administrative roles before the Italian state turned it into a public museum in 1923, preserving its vast artistic and historical treasures for the world.
Frequently asked questions
What is special about the Doge's Palace?
The Doge's Palace is special for its unique Venetian Gothic architecture, which appears to defy gravity, and its role as the centre of political power for the Venetian Republic for over 1,000 years. It houses incredible artworks, including one of the world's largest oil paintings, and holds countless historical secrets.
Why are two columns of the Doge's Palace red?
Two columns on the main facade are made of red Verona marble to signify the spot where death sentences were officially proclaimed. This location served as a powerful and public symbol of the Republic's judicial power.
What is the story of the Bridge of Sighs?
The Bridge of Sighs connects the Doge's Palace's interrogation rooms to the New Prisons. Its name comes from the romanticised idea that prisoners would sigh as they crossed it, taking one last look at Venice before being imprisoned.
Eager to uncover these stories for yourself? Don't wait in line. book tickets in advance to secure your entry to one of Venice's most captivating historical sites.