Doges' Palace - Venice
Work on the Doges' Palace in Venice began in 1310. This gothic building on the banks of the entrance to the Grand Canal was the symbol of the power of the Venetian Republic. It followed a first ducal palace which was destroyed in a fire in 976, and was inspired by the palace of King Solomon. Certain architectural and decorative elements also evoke the city's contacts with the East.
The Doges exercised their authority from the palace until 1789, centralizing legislative, executive and judiciary powers. Furthermore, the attics housed a prison where Casanova was one of its most famous inmates. It is now a museum, and displays works by Tintoretto and other great Venetian artists.
