Palazzo Ducale (Doge's Palace), Genoa (must see)

The Duke's Palace was once home to the Doges of Genoa. This historical building, in the heart of the city, is accessible from both Matteotti Square and Ferrari Square. It was constructed in the 13th century when Genoa was coming into its own as a maritime power.

In Genoa, the head of state was called the Captain of the People. The Captain and staff were practically homeless and spent most of their time in either the Archbishop's Palace or the homes of the Doria and Fieschi families.

That all changed by 1294. Co-Captain of the People, Corrado Doria, and Oberto Spinola had bought the Doria family buildings and the mansion of Alberto Fieschi. These buildings merged and became the abbots' palaces.

In 1339, Simone Boccanegra ("Simon Blackmouth") was the first doge of Genoa. The palace was named "Duke." In the 14th century, new buildings were added to the complex. By the 15th century, a garrison building was added, and the square became a fortified courtyard.

The Doge's Palace was reconstructed in the 18th century after a devastating fire. The architect Simone Cantoni created a new facade of marble and redesigned the public rooms in gilded stucco and marble.

Today this elder center of power is used for exhibitions, meetings, special events, and as a library and museum. It is the result of the largest restoration in Europe, covering a building of 300,000 square meters.