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The Doges’ Palace was a municipal center and residence for the doges or elected leaders of the former Venetian Republic. The splendid perforations of the marble Gothic loggias that look like stone lace, give it an appearance of lightness despite its massive size. Best viewed from the sea, I was so much in awe staring at it that I forgot to take a photo from the boat before we docked!
Location: Venice Italy
The Byzantine-style St. Mark's Basilica is the most famous church in Venice. Standing right next to the Doges Palace, it faces a huge square where people and pigeons congregate together. Built in the 11th century, its basic structure has changed little though the interiors have been redecorated many times over. Gold mosaic tiles adorn much of the ceiling, walls and front facade attesting to the power and wealth of the Venetians during those times.
Location: Venice, Italy
This white limestone bridge over Rio di Palazzo that connects the old prisons to the interrogation rooms in the Doges Palace was christened the Bridge of Sighs by Lord Byron. It comes from the notion that prisoners would sigh at their final view of beautiful Venice through the window before being taken down to their cells. A local legend says that lovers will be assured eternal love if they kiss on a gondola at sunset under the bridge. Well, I heaved a deep sigh of regret when I was told by the gondolier the prohibitive cost ($80) of hiring the boat for the minimum half-hour ride down the canals.
Location: Venice, Italy
