Doge’s Palace

Foscari Arch and Scala dei Giganti

The main entrance leads directly into the Scala dei Giganti or Stairs of the Giants through the Foscari Arch.

The arch and staircase were designed by Antonio Rizzo during the late 15th century.  The stairs lead up to the state apartmentsand it is here where the Doges were crowned (and where one was beheaded!),.

On each side of the staircase are two statues, one of Mars and one of Neptune. These symbolised the power of Venice by land and sea. They were designed by Tuscan artist, Jacopo Sansovino.

Scala D’Oro (Stairs of Gold)

Designed by Sansovino during the 16th century. The stairs are painted in 24 carat gold. The stairs are lined in oil paintings and sculpted figures creating an impressive regal entrance.

Sala del Collegio (Cabinet Room)

This is where the Doge had meetings with important visitors. An impressive room with paintings by Veronese and Tintoretto including one showing victory over the Turks during the battle of Lepanto. Other rooms on this floor also have their own art and sculptures worth seeing.

Sala del Maggior Cinsiglio (Hall of the Great Council)

This is the great hall where the Great Council would meet. It was destroyed by fire in 1577 but rebuilt (with lavish details) between 1578 and 1594. The guilded ceiling and panels depict the glories of the Venetian Republic by Tintoretto, Veronese and more.

In Addition

The Doge’s apartments, Bridge of Sighs and prisons are worth seeing – especially crossing the Bridge of Sighs.