Layer upon layer of differing architectural styles come together to form the magnificent Doge's Palace. A symbol of the Venetian government and political heritage, the historic palace was once the seat of the Doge, the chief magistrate of the former Republic of Venice. The foundations of the complex were laid during the 14th Century. Through the years, the palace was repeatedly reconstructed, extended and restored, creating a mix of artistic and architectural styles ranging from the Medieval to the Renaissance. A masterpiece of Gothic design, the palace is replete with exquisite details like sculptures, frescoes, arches and graceful columns. The original Doge's Apartments, the Armory, the Prisons, the Courtyard and Loggias have all been beautifully restored, with numerous hidden treasures around every corner. This historic icon also houses the Museo dell'Opera and its extensive art collection.
The Ca' d'Oro is a beautiful Gothic structure that served as a home to a highly influential family in the 15th century. Built for the Contarini family, the structure is called the Palazzo Santa Sofia and more casually got the name Ca' d'Oro, which means ‘golden house’ or ‘house of gold’, because of the chrome decoration and gold inlays on the exterior. Giovanni Bon and Bartolomeo Bon, his son, were the architects on the job as well as the sculptors and they created a beautiful Gothic structure that is still talked about because of its style. Through the years, a few private owners destroyed some of the original structure. Then when Baron Giorgio Franchetti became the owner, he restored what was destroyed and now it is almost as good as it was when the original architects made it. The house is now restored and is open to the public. It is now known as the Gallery Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca’ d’Oro. It houses the Baron’s personal art collection, and also showcases the original furniture and decor.
Located on the Grand Canal, Ca' Rezzonico was the last building planned by famous Baroque architect Baldassare Longhena. The interior is a reconstruction of an 18th-century palace, with original restored furnishings. The Venetian decor is splendid, particularly in the ballroom with its stunning trompe l'oeil, and the nuptial room, which has richly decorated dressing tables. Today, it is a museum dedicated to the Venice of the 18th Century and comprises beautiful fixtures as well as many works of art. There are frescoes by Tiepolo and paintings by Guardi, Canaletto and Longhi that are worth checking out.
Fondaco dei Turchi is a magnificent palatial structure situated in the captivating city of Venice in Italy. It overlooks the spectacular Grand Canal, and is one of the most popular historic landmarks of the city. With its Veneto-Byzantine architectural style, this edifice is truly a sight to behold. It was designed and constructed by Giacomo Palmier in 13th Century. In bygone times, this site was used as a place of sojourn by the dignitaries visiting the city. In 17th Century, this place was mostly occupied by the Turkish populace. At present, it houses the Tegnùe Aquarium and the Ligabue Expedition Room - which has numerous exhibits pertaining to fossils.