Between 1339 and 1797 the then Republic of Genoa, a state of the Holy Roman Empire, was ruled by the Doges of Genoa. Officially a position one had to earn through a voting system, it was, in reality, an oligarchy. These men resided in the Doge's Palace, a 13th century palace in the city which is now open to the public and houses many different museums and cultural institutions. A striking, large elegant building, it is one of the architectural gems of this exceptionally beautiful city and has been subject to much alteration and addition over the years, reflecting many architectural styles in one structure. The building itself is worth dropping by for a gawk but a cultural mecca is held within, just waiting to be explored. Once you have found a holiday rental in Liguria, be sure to spend a day exploring this extraordinary city and building.
The Doge's Palace was first built in the 13th century, but only in 1339 did it become the seat of Genoa's first Doge, Simon Boccanegra. Its original owner was exiled and the palace was then bought by noble citizens of the city who altered and extended it and it eventually became the “Ducale”. During the 14th century the palace was enlarged and other buildings were added to allow for the creation of an inner square. In the 16th century, new works under Andrea Ceresola, known as “Vannone”, lead to the complete disappearance of the medieval structure.
In the 17th century, a grand decorative scheme was embarked upon for the palace, with Giovanni Battista Carlone and Domenico Fiasella creating frescoes for the building. Many works were lost, however, in a fire in the 18th century. It was then that reconstruction of the central side was overseen by Ticinese Simone Cantoni, a famous neo-classical architect. In the 19th century and early 20th century, the palace was altered once more and, additionally, separated out from the surrounding environment. A decorated façade was built specially by Orlando Grosso for the construction of the new De Ferrari square on the Eastern Side of the Palace. The main façade remains the 18th century one in Piazza Matteotti, decorated with its grand stone figures in chains which represent the vanquished opponents of mighty Genoa.
Today, some of the public areas of the building can be visited, and there are organised tours of the building's historic tower and prisons. The palace also houses exhibitions and events; from free photography exhibitions to major art shows, to a Jazz Museum and even a “Poetry room”. With endless things to see and do under one roof, the Doge's Palace is a must for anyone visiting Genoa or Liguria!
Today, some of the public areas of the building can be visited, and there are organised tours of the building's historic tower and prisons. The palace also houses exhibitions and events; from free photography exhibitions to major art shows, to a Jazz Museum and even a “Poetry room”. With endless things to see and do under one roof, the Doge's Palace is a must for anyone visiting Genoa or Liguria!