Palazzo Ducale

The Palazzo Ducale, in Genoa

The Palazzo Ducale is the flagship palace of Genoa, former seat of the government of the Republic and residence of the Doges. The Genoa audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this symbol of Genoese power raised from 1298, become in 1339 the dwelling of the Doges, these elected leaders who led the Republic for centuries, rebuilt in neoclassical style after the fire of 1777 and today a high cultural place.

History

With more than one hundred and twenty palaces to its credit, Genoa could have given an impression of permanent déjà-vu. But by their size, their colour or their orientation, these prestigious addresses all distinguish themselves, and even more the one that stands in front of you. The construction of the Palazzo Ducale, flagship symbol of the city, goes back to 1298, at the moment when Genoa was rising among the great maritime and military powers of the Mediterranean: a question of power and prosperity fully assumed. From 1339, the complex became the residence of the Doges of the city, these "popular" elected officials who held the reins of the Republic of Genoa, from its birth in the middle of the eleventh century until its fall at the end of the eighteenth. Severely damaged by a fire in 1777, the Palazzo Ducale was entirely rebuilt in a neoclassical style, and not baroque as originally; it is under this aspect, many times restored, that it presents itself today, with the exception of its "Tower of the People". Become a high cultural place, it now hosts exhibitions and great events.

What to see

Here you admire the flagship palace of Genoa, raised from 1298 at the summit of the maritime power of the city, become in 1339 the residence of the Doges who led the Republic for centuries; rebuilt in neoclassical style after the fire of 1777, it preserves its "Tower of the People" and today hosts exhibitions and great events. The Palazzo Ducale is the symbol of Genoese power. It is a fine stop, to be explored on foot.

Practical information

The Palazzo Ducale lies piazza Matteotti, in the heart of the historic centre of Genoa, reachable on foot. It is a cultural centre whose access to the courtyards is often free; the exhibitions and the Tower of the People follow hours and fees that vary. It is best to enquire before coming.

What was the Palazzo Ducale of Genoa?

Raised from 1298, this flagship palace was the seat of the government of the Republic of Genoa and, from 1339, the residence of the Doges, these elected leaders who led the city from the eleventh to the eighteenth century; rebuilt in neoclassical style after the fire of 1777, it preserves its "Tower of the People" and is today a high cultural place hosting exhibitions and events.

Where is the Palazzo Ducale in Genoa?

Piazza Matteotti, in the heart of the historic centre of Genoa, in Italy.