The 14th century Palazzo Ducale (or Doges' Palace) was for centuries the seat of power for the Venetian empire.
From "Venice and Its Lagoon" by Giulio Lorenzetti:
"The Doges' Palace - the seat of government of the old Republic - was the highest expression of the glorious and powerful Serenissima in its splendour and magnificence of art. It was the Doges' residence, the main administrative building, the public Archives and the Palace of Justice; the most decisive events in the history of the thousand years old Republic, both those culminating in greatness and in misfortune, took place between its walls."
John Ruskin, author of "The Stones of Venice" and worshipper of Venetian Gothic architecture, called it "a model of all perfection" and "the central building of the world."
Thanks for visiting and have a good weekend.
See a list of upcoming Saturday Photo Hunting themes on Gattina's website here.
Comments (10)
Great shots and interesting Venetian history. Happy Weekend!
Posted by Carver | March 9, 2012 11:43 AM
Posted on March 9, 2012 11:43
Hi Annie, perfect take on this week's theme and beautiful photos of the Doges' Palace. This is such an amazing building. The three times I've visited Venice, I made it a point to visit the Doges' Palace (taking two guided tours inside), because I just love the history behind it and the architecture.
Thanks so much for sharing. Have a great weekend.
Posted by Kathy (Trekcapri) | March 9, 2012 12:34 PM
Posted on March 9, 2012 12:34
incredible architecture. the facade does evoke power.
Posted by Ewok | March 9, 2012 12:47 PM
Posted on March 9, 2012 12:47
The building itself looks powerful, a perfect setting for the powers within. :)
Posted by Sue St Clair | March 9, 2012 2:19 PM
Posted on March 9, 2012 14:19
This building is so magnificent! Would love to know more about the history within its walls.
Posted by eastcoastlife | March 9, 2012 10:58 PM
Posted on March 9, 2012 22:58
Seat (and symbol) of power but also beautiful buildings! :)
Posted by YTSL | March 9, 2012 11:34 PM
Posted on March 9, 2012 23:34
Good one for this saturday..
Posted by keeyit | March 10, 2012 8:53 AM
Posted on March 10, 2012 08:53
That's a beautiful Palace, I have seen it several times when I was in Venice.
Posted by Gattina | March 10, 2012 11:02 AM
Posted on March 10, 2012 11:02
Perfect choice for a power theme! Interesting angle in the first photo, love the light and shadow contrast too.
Posted by Anne | March 10, 2012 6:03 PM
Posted on March 10, 2012 18:03
You can feel the power reaching out from these pictures. :D
Posted by Raine | March 15, 2012 2:05 AM
Posted on March 15, 2012 02:05