The Doge’s Palace and Basilica private guided tour takes to the most important buildings in Venice. The Doge’s Palace,  “the central building of the World” according to John Ruskin, was the residence of the Doge. Yet it was also the home of the governing councils, the  law courts and the bureaucracy. And this since  the origins of the Venetian Republic up to its downfall  in 1797.

The unique Gothic architecture of the Doge’s Palace celebrates the agelong political stability of Venice. Venice government system was quite peculiar, yet it standed out for its incredible stability. It  limited individual power, and prevented factional rivalries.

One of the most impressive aspect is the multitude of paintings draping the walls of the Palace. All paintings extol the image and glory of Venice “the Most Serene Republic”. Venice was the ideal State, whose enduring independence was considered a sign of divine favor.

The origins of the Basilica of St Mark date to 829 to enshrine the relic of the Mark the Evangelist, but the present building dates to 1063.

It was the Ducal Chapel and the Church of the State for almost 1,000 years. Over 86,000 square feet of glowing mosaics, and extraordinary marbles and sculptures decorate the walls and ceiling of the church. Impressive is also at the view of the magnificent Golden Screen encrusted with 2000 precious stones.

DURATION: 2 hours

THE PRICE OF THE DOGE’S PALACE AND BASILICA GUIDED TOUR INCLUDES:

• the service of a certified tour guide for 2 hours
• admission to the Doge’s Palace
• skip-the-line admission to the Basilica
• admission to the Golden Screen (Pala d’Oro)