Venice Prisons - Doge's Palace Piombi & Pozzi

From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+

Marco

Jun 2025

Revisited the Doge's Palace after almost 20 years, tour route somewhat reduced compared to the past, good visitor flow management. Acceptable wait at 'entrance.

Michelle

United States

May 2025

The highlight of the tour was going up on the rooftop of the duomoand seeing the beautiful views of Milan. The tour of the inside of the church was interesting, but our guide was hard to understand at times and was fairly dry. Of course, the duomo is gorgeous and it was excellent to get more information about some of the details of the beautiful cathedral.

Eric

United States

Jun 2025

Our tour guide, Lorenzo, was fantastic! Extremely knowledgeable and created a setting where the history came back to life. I HIGHLY recommend booking the early morning tour before everything gets busy.

Caitlin

Australia

Apr 2025

+1 more

Our guide was absolutely wonderful, incredibly knowledgeable about the history of Venetian art, architecture, politics, and commerce. Tickets to both the Doge's Palace and St Mark's Basilica had already sold out by the time I thought to check, so I'm really glad I was able to see them this way. One tiny little thing - the meet up instructions said that the guide would be holding a particular sign, which they weren't, so I hung back for ages cause I couldn't tell which tour group was mine.

Aldo

Argentina

May 2025

The visit was well illustrated by our guide, a Spanish woman whose name I unfortunately do not remember, and we had an interesting tour of the interior of the Palace. After the guide's participation, we were able to tour the prison sector.

Jay

United States

Apr 2025

+1 more

Our guide, Valentina, was the best things about the tour. The Doge's Palace and associated history are fascinating. Every time I go, I learn something new. Valentina made the tour fun and engaging. Very interesting to learn more about Venice and it's governance over the ages, especially in light of where we find ourselves in the US these days. Would definitely recommend Headout.

Janet

United States

Mar 2025

+1 more

The craftsmanship that can never be replicated is mind boggling. Floors, ceilings and stutues. Would be incredible if the original plans exsisted. Not to be missed.

Larysa

Ukraine

Mar 2025

The best choice is to buy a subscription. The best Venice tours in your pocket without queues. Everything is very simple and convenient. I recommend

From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+

Marco

Jun 2025

Revisited the Doge's Palace after almost 20 years, tour route somewhat reduced compared to the past, good visitor flow management. Acceptable wait at 'entrance.

Michelle

United States

May 2025

Eric

United States

Jun 2025

Caitlin

Australia

Apr 2025

+1 more

Aldo

Argentina

May 2025

Jay

United States

Apr 2025

+1 more

Janet

United States

Mar 2025

+1 more

The craftsmanship that can never be replicated is mind boggling. Floors, ceilings and stutues. Would be incredible if the original plans exsisted. Not to be missed.

Larysa

Ukraine

Mar 2025

The best choice is to buy a subscription. The best Venice tours in your pocket without queues. Everything is very simple and convenient. I recommend

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The Doge's Palace Prisons: A dark chapter of Venetian justice

Doge's Palace, a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture, served as the residence of the Doge and the seat of the Venetian government. Within its grand walls lies a chilling secret: its notorious network of prisons. From the oppressive dampness of the Pozzi (Wells) and scorching heat of the Piombi (Leads) to the later New Prisons, these unforgiving cells housed inmates of all ranks, each enduring a unique kind of torment. Exploring these prisons gives you a different perspective into Venice’s past, beyond its celebrated art and architecture.

How to access the prisons?

Your regular entry ticket includes access across the Bridge of Sighs to the New Prisons. Opt for the Secret Itineraries Tour to access exclusive areas such as the Piombi and Pozzi, investigators’ offices, and private meeting rooms. It is a more in-depth and engaging tour option with a thematic focus on unique stories and legends of the palace.

Why visit the Venice Prisons?

Step back into a time capsule: The Doge's Palace prisons aren't sterile exhibits; they're a portal to the past. Exploring them allows you to experience, firsthand, a tangible piece of Venetian history.
See the other side of Venice: Venice's image is often painted with strokes of romance and artistic beauty. The prisons reveal a different side, a place of harsh justice and human suffering, giving a nuanced view of the Venetian Republic.
Learn about the lives of famous prisoners: From Giacomo Casanova to Giuseppe Garibaldi, the prison housed numerous famous inmates. Imagine the desperation in the engravings left by prisoners in the Pozzi. The Secret Itineraries Tour vividly recounts these tales of intrigue, despair, and daring escapes, such as Casanova's.
A place of reflection: The Doge's Palace prisons aren't just about chills and thrills. Confronting the harsh realities of Venetian justice prompts you to consider the evolution of punishment and the importance of a fair legal system.

Plan your Doge's Palace visit

The infamous Prisons of Doge's Palace, Venice

The Pozzi (Wells)

Location: On the ground floor of Doge's Palace.
These cells were extremely cramped, dark, and damp, with ceilings so low that prisoners couldn't stand upright.
Conditions: Known for their inhumane conditions, which often led to disease and insanity among inmates.
Notable features: The walls of the Pozzi still has some graffiti and artwork etched by the prisoners, some even creating artistic works like the Virgin and Child scene. It reflects the psychological state of prisoners.

The Piombi (Leads)

Location: In the attic of Doge's Palace
Cells situated under a lead roof (also where they derived the name Piombi from) resulting in extreme temperatures— scorching in the summer and freezing in the winter. They housed inmates awaiting trial or those of noble birth.
Conditions: While a bit brighter than the Pozzi due to roof windows, they were still suffocating and uncomfortable. Some privileges for prisoners included receiving food and items from outside.
Notable inmate: Giacomo Casanova, the famous libertine and writer, was imprisoned here and famously escaped by drilling a hole in the ceiling.

The New Prisons

Location: Accessible via the Bridge of Sighs, adjacent to Doge's Palace.
These prisons were built to address overcrowding and the harsh conditions of the older prisons. This two-story building held up to 400 inmates and featured a central courtyard.
Conditions: It was designed with natural light and ventilation, supporting a more humane environment for prisoners.
Historical significance: One of the earliest purpose-built prison structures in Europe, designed by Antonio Rusconi in 1563 and completed by Antonio da Ponte.

Crossing the Bridge of Sighs

Venetian justice and torture

The Doge's Palace wasn't just a hub of Venetian politics; it also housed a ruthless justice system with torture as a chilling instrument.

Venetian justice system

Trials likely took place within the Doge's Palace, with the austere Upper Chancery Hall serving as a venue for discussions and analyses of cases.
Anonymous accusations, submitted through "lion's mouth" mailboxes, could initiate legal proceedings.
The Council of Ten, a much-feared body, likely played a significant role in Venetian justice, possibly overseeing trials or investigations.

Torture methods

A dedicated "Torment Chamber" existed within the Doge's Palace, specifically designed to inflict pain. The screams from chambers were deliberately audible to other prisoners, likely to instill fear and pressure confessions. It wasn't just about obtaining information but also about psychological intimidation.
The "rope method" involved excruciatingly tight binding of a prisoner's hands followed by suspension, likely causing immense physical strain.
"Drop torture" involved immobilizing a prisoner and relentlessly dripping water on their forehead, causing sleep deprivation and mental anguish.

Frequently asked questions about Venice Prisons

Can visitors access the prisons on their own, or are guided tours required?

You can access the New Prisons connected to the Doge's Palace on your own with a regular admission ticket. However, access to historic Pozzi and Piombi prisons is only possible via the Secret Itineraries tours.

What was life like for prisoners in Doge's Palace Prisons?

In the Doge's Palace Prisons, harsh conditions varied by location and crime. Cramped, damp "Wells" offered minimal light and sanitation, while scorching hot "Leads" under the roof brought misery. Even "Inner Cells" lacked ventilation, leading to prisoner decline. Overcrowding, poor hygiene, and meager rations added to the torment. Social status mattered – nobles fared better, but for all, it was a brutal experience.

How can I book tickets for the Secret Itineraries Tour, and what does it include?

The Secret Itineraries Tour must be pre-booked and cannot be accessed independently. You can book the tour online through authorized ticket vendors. Apart from regular admission to Doge's Palace it includes guided access to restricted areas of the Doge's Palace not open to regular visitors, including the Pozzi (Wells) prisons, torture chamber, and other hidden rooms. Enjoy an in-depth look at the judicial system and dark history of the Venetian Republic. It's an opportunity to see where famous inmates like Casanova were held and learn about their stories.

Are the prisons wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, the prisons within the Doge's Palace, including the Pozzi and Piombi, are not wheelchair accessible due to their historical architecture and narrow passageways.

What famous prisoners were held in Doge's Palace Prisons?

Many famous prisoners were held in Doge's Palace Prisons, including Giacomo Casanova, the legendary lover and adventurer; Marco Polo, the Venetian merchant and explorer; and Silvio Pellico, the Italian poet and writer.

When were Doge's Palace Prisons closed?

Doge's Palace Prisons were closed in 1922, after almost four centuries of use. The building was then converted into a museum, which opened to the public in 1923.

What is the significance of Doge's Palace Prisons?

Doge's Palace Prisons are significant for their historical and cultural importance, as they offer insight into the political and social climate of Venice during the Venetian Republic. They also represent the harsh realities of prison life in the past.

Are there any restrictions on photography inside the prisons?

Photography is generally allowed but flash is prohibited. Tripods may be restricted in some areas. Just follow the instructions of guides and staff.

What are the hours of operation for visiting the prisons, and are there peak times to avoid?

The Doge's Palace and its prisons typically operate from morning until early evening, with specific hours varying by season. To avoid crowds, we strongly recommend visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Are there any recommended resources or books to learn more about the history of the Venice Prisons?

Resources like books on Venetian history or specific publications about the Doge's Palace prisons might be available at the Palace bookstore or online retailers. You can check "The Venetian Empire: A Sea Voyage" by Jan Morris and "The Prisons of Venice" by Nigel Cliff for more in-depth historical accounts.

Are there facilities like restrooms and cafes available nearby?

Yes, there are restrooms and a cafe conveniently located within the Doge's Palace complex near the prisons. The ground floor toilets at the Doge's Palace are fully accessible for wheelchairs. Since the palace is quite large and requires a lot of walking, especially if you're going on a tour that reaches the upper floors, it's recommended to use the restroom before your tour begins. Additionally, you'll find plenty of dining and restroom options in St. Mark's Square and the surrounding area.