Majestic
facade of the neo-classical style at the square Matteotti. Here is the front.
At
the entrance there is a spacious corridor, anyone can come and go freely. Sometimes,
in the courtyard of the atrium in the back of photos, various exhibitions or
mini concerts are held.
At
the end of the stairs the symbol of Genoa is painted.
Large
Chamber (Sala del Maggior Consiglio): Gorgeous chandeliers are decorated in lavish.
The graceful atmosphere.
The
facade at the Square of Ferrari. Modern classical design compared to the facade
of the Matteotti side.
During the Middle Ages, here was the rule base in the Republic of Genoa. After it was obtained from the Genoa noblemen, the Doria family and Fieschi, in 1939 the first governor Simon Boccanegra reformed this building into the Doge's Palace. Doge's Palace means the "Palace of the Governor".
In the late 16th century, even if having been constructed as a fortress, the building was changed drastically into the powerful and graceful Mannerism style.
The fire of 1777 left heavy damages to some Chamber halls, however the building was reborn with some new decorations and the majestic facade of the neo-classical style faced to the Matteotti square.
After 1797, with the demise of the Republic of Genoa, Palazzo Ducale lost the function as a fortress, and became the local government headquarter, and the court later. Then it was repaired several times, most recently between 1980 and 1992. This repair was one of the most widespread in Europe for cultural preservation.
Now, of course the architectural art of this building can be appreciated. And then here is used for some congresses, exhibitions, lectures, and there are also library and museum... It is used as a venue for cultural multipurpose with restaurant and some shops. For example, the G8 Summit in 2001 and the Exhibition of European culture in 2004 were held here.
By visiting the public sections, you can feel the breath of medieval architecture generally speaking. However I recommend you to enter if you find some interesting events or exhibitions. Usually, descriptions of exhibition are written in Italian and English but you could appreciate the artistic decorations normally not opened for the public, at those opportunities. In particular, giant and decorative chandeliers in the large Chamber (Sala del Maggior Consiglio), and the paintings in the chapel of the Governor (Capella del Doge) are awfully magnificent.
The inside restaurant, cafe and shops have a modern atmosphere with fashionable Italian design.
| Name | Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) |
| Address | Piazza Matteotti 9-16123 Genova-ITALY |
| How to reach | From Genoa Brignore Station Bus: Take one of the buses of No. 17,18,18/,19, 33, 37, 37/, 39, 40, 46, 47 towards to the Piazza de Ferrari and get off at the stop of Piazza de Ferrari / Metro De Ferrari. From Genoa Principe Station Subway: 10 minutes. Go right from the Principe railway station, the subway station is on the Doria street (Via Doria). You can find the "M" sign. Take a subway to the direction of De Ferrari and get off at the last station. Bus: Take one of the buses of No. 30, 35 to the Square of Ferrari (Piazza De Ferrari). Get off at the Piazza de Ferrari stop. |
| TEL | +39 010 557 4000 |
| FAX | +39 010 557 4001 |
| Open | Everyday |
| Open | 9:00-18:30 |
| Web Site | www.palazzoducale.genova.it |
| Map | View Larger Map |
Genoa's hidden attraction. Located in the Square of Ferrari (Piazza de Ferrari), the heart of Genoa. The building is magnificent palace. There are a hotel, restaurant, cafe, and book shop inside.