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Doge of Venice

The Doge of Venice (/doʊdʒ/ DOHJ) was the highest role of authority within the Republic of Venice (697 CE to 1797 CE)[1]. The word "Doge" originates from the Latin word "Dux," which translates to "leader" or "Duke."

The Doge of Venice acted as both the head of state and head of the Venetian oligarchy. During the 12th century, Venetian aristocracy placed strict limits on the Doge's power, making the position of the Doge largely ceremonial. The Venetian Republic operated in this manner for centuries until its decline and eventual dissolution in the 18th century.

History

The Doge of Venice was the Chief magistrate and leader of the Republic of Venice, a city-state that existed for over a thousand years. The history of the Doge of Venice is closely intertwined with the history of the Venetian Republic.

The title of Doge (Dux in Latin) first emerged in the early medieval period, with the first historical record of a Doge dating back to the late 8th century. Initially, the Doge was a military leader appointed by the Byzantine Empire, which held sway over Venice. However, over time, the Doge's rule evolved to include administrative and political responsibilities.

In the 9th century, Venice began to assert its independence from the Byzantine Empire. The Venetians gradually established a republican form of government, with the Doge as the hereditary head of state.

By the late 11th century, the Doge became an elected official, chosen by a council of Venetian nobles. The system of the election aimed to prevent the concentration of power and avoid dynastic rule.

The Doge of Venice served as the ceremonial head of state, representing the Venetian Republic in various diplomatic functions. However, the Doge's power was limited by various councils, including the Great Council and the Council of Ten, which held significant influence in the republic.

Throughout its history, Venice faced various challenges, including conflicts with neighboring states, such as Genoa and the Papal States. The Fourth Crusade in 1204 resulted in the capture of Constantinople, which brought Venice considerable wealth and influence.

Venice thrived as a maritime and trading power during the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance. It was a hub for trade with the East and a center of art, culture, and intellectual innovation.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Venetian Republic's power waned. It faced military defeats and financial difficulties. In 1797, the republic was conquered by Napoleon Bonaparte, marking the end of Venetian independence.

The Doge of Venice and the Venetian Republic left a rich historical and cultural legacy. Venice is renowned for its art, architecture, and contributions to politics and diplomacy.

Selection of the Doge

Doges were elected for life through a complex voting process, though the exact process of electing a Doge evolved over centuries. The Venetian Republic was known for its unique and thorough political system, characterized by a strong emphasis on the separation of powers and the avoidance of any one individual gaining too much authority.

Only members of the Venetian aristocracy, known as the patricians, were eligible to become Doge. The Doge had to be a male member of one of the noble families of Venice. The Doge was highly experienced in other government positions prior to becoming Doge.

A committee of six electors, known as the "Electors of the Doge" or "Ducal Electors," was responsible for selecting the candidates. These electors were chosen by a larger council, known as the "Great Council," which represented Venetian aristocracy.

The electors would hold a secret ballot to nominate candidates for the position of Doge. Typically, they would nominate several candidates, and those nominated had to meet certain age and wealth requirements.

From the nominated candidates, a certain number were selected by drawing lots. This element of chance was introduced to prevent factionalism and ensure that the Doge was selected without undue influence.

The selected candidate would then be presented to the Great Council, which consisted of a larger number of members. The Great Council would then vote on whether to accept or reject the candidate proposed by the electors. If the candidate was accepted by the Great Council, they would become the new Doge.

Once elected and approved, the Doge was crowned and formally took office. The coronation of the Doge involved elaborate ceremonies and rituals.

Notable Doges

While there were numerous Doges throughout the history of the Venetian Republic, there are a few notable Doges.

Agnello Participazio

Agnello Participazio (served from 810 - 827) was one of the earliest Doges of Venice. He played a significant role in the early development of the Venetian Republic.

Enrico Dandolo

Enrico Dandolo (served from 1192 - 1205) is perhaps one of the most famous Doges in history. He led Venice through the Fourth Crusade and played a key role in the capture of Constantinople in 1204.

Francesco Foscari

Francesco Froscari (served from 1423 - 1457) was a prominent Doge during the Renaissance era. His long and eventful rule was marked by political and military challenges, including conflicts with Milan and the Papal States.

Andrea Gritti

Andrea Gritti (served from 1523 - 1538) was known for his successful military campaigns, particularly against the Ottoman Empire. He was a prominent figure during the early modern period of Venetian history.

Sebastiano Venier

Sebastiano Venier (served from 1577 - 1578) was celebrated for his leadership during the Battle of Lepanto in 1571, a significant naval attack against the Ottoman Empire.

Marco Foscarini

Marco Foscarini (served 1762 - 1763) was the Doge of Venice was nearing the end of its existence as an independent republic. He was the last Doge to be elected, and his short term coincided with the decline and eventual fall of the Venetian Republic.

Residence of the Doge

The official residence of the Doge is the Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) which is located in St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco) in Venice. It is one of the most iconic and historically significant buildings in Venice. The Doge's Palace served as the political and administrative center of the Republic of Venice for many centuries, and it also housed the Doge and his family.

The Doge's Palace is a stunning example of Venetian Gothic architecture. It boasts delicate tracery, pointed arches, and intricate stonework. The palace's exterior is adorned with pink and white marble, and its design reflects the wealth and power of the Venetian Republic.

The front facade of the palace faces the Grand Canal. Passing ships were greeted with the ornately decorated facade, which showcases the grandeur of the Venetian Republic.

The interior of the Doge's Palace is equally impressive. It houses various rooms and chambers used for administrative, political, and ceremonial purposes. The Council of Ten, the Senate, and other important governmental bodies met within the palace.

One of the most famous features of the Doge's Palace is the Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri). This enclosed bridge connected the palace to the adjacent prisons, and it is named for the sighs of prisoners who would cross it on their way to incarceration. It is an iconic and often-photographed part of the palace.

The Doge's Palace is adjacent to St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco), one of the most important religious buildings in Venice. The proximity of the palace to the basilica symbolized the close relationship of church and state in the Venetian Republic.

The palace is now a museum and popular tourist attraction, allowing visitors to explore its rich history and architectural beauty. It provides valuable insights into the history and culture of the Venetian Republic.

Regalia

The regalia of the Doge of Venice included a variety of ceremonial and symbolic items that were used during official events and ceremonies to represent the authority and prestige of the office.

The Corno Ducale

The Doge's headdress, known as the "Corno Ducale" or "Doge's Cap," was a distinctive hat adorned with jewels and made of red silk. It was typically cone-shaped or pointed and often featured a golden fringe or tassel.

The Stole

The Doge wore a long, richly embroidered stole or sash over his shoulder, which symbolized his authority. The stole was made of luxurious fabric and featured intricate designs.

The Dalmatic

The Doge's dalmatic was a long, robe-like garment that was also elaborately decorated. It was typically made of luxurious materials, such as silk, and featured ornate embroidery.

The Ring

The Doge had a ceremonial ring, known as the "Ring of the Doge." This ring was used in various official ceremonies, including the Investiture of the Doge. It was a symbol of the Doge's marriage to the sea and his commitment to Venice.

The Scepter

The Doge's scepter was a ceremonial staff, often made of precious metals, with intricate designs. It symbolized the authority of the Doge and was used in formal ceremonies.

The Sword

The Doge's sword was a symbol of his role as a defender of Venice. It was used in various ceremonial functions, including the "Wedding of the Sea" ceremony.

The Bucintoro

The Doge's official state barge, known as the "Bucintoro," was an ornate and elaborately decorated vessel used in the "Wedding of the Sea" ceremony. The Doge would embark on the Bucintoro to perform the symbolic wedding of Venice to the Adriatic Sea.

Death of the Doge

When a Doge passed away, the death was announced to the Venetian public, and the city would enter a period of mourning. The mourning period generally lasted 40 days, during which public celebrations and festivities were prohibited.

The body of the deceased Doge would be prepared for public display. The body was dressed in the Doge's ceremonial regalia. The body would then be placed in the state for public viewing.

The body of the Doge would lie in state in a prominent location, often in the Doge's Palace or a church. This allowed citizens to pay their respects.

A grand funeral procession was organized to accompany the body of the Doge to its final resting place. The procession included dignitaries, nobles, and members of the government.

A religious funeral service was conducted, often in the presence of a high-ranking clergy. The service included prayers and blessings for the deceased Doge's soul.

The Doge was typically interred in St. Mark's Basilica. Many Doges are buried in the church's Chapel of the Crucifix.