Venice (7-8)

Description

We tour the interior of the Doge's Palace, which was much more than a residence. It was also the seat of government for the councils and judges, as well as the prison. The palace was damaged by various fires, was completely rebuilt in the 14th Century, and is covered with pink and white marble. The large interior courtyard contains two bronze well heads made in the 1550s. The Giants' Staircase at the right rear is topped with massive statues of Neptune and Mars and leads to the first floor holding the Doge's private apartment and various offices. From the first floor, the Golden Staircase leads to the upper floors. On the second floor are large rooms for the Doge's hearings and meetings of the Senate, as well as courtrooms. The third floor contains the huge Sala del Maggior Consiglio (High Council Hall), which is 177 feet long, 82 feet wide, 50 feet high, and covered with enormous paintings in elaborate gold frames. Up to 2000 of the noblemen of Venice met in this Hall. The Sala Dello Scrutinio (Voting Hall) has a large Triumphal Arch at one end. Last on the tour is going across the Bridge of Sighs to the new prison building. Accommodations in the prison ranged from the pits (damp dungeon) to the Leads (upper rooms for those wealthy enough to pay for their keep). The art and architecture of the Doge’s Palace are amazing. At the end of the day, we go back to the hotel, head up to the Skyline Rooftop Bar, relax for a bit, and enjoy the view.
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