RELAXED DOGES’ PALACE

expand and conquer a Sea and a Land Empire and, above all, to create a powerful commercial net, connecting central Europe with the Eastern Mediterranean. The apogee was reached between the 13^th and the 15^th centuries; by the beginning of the 16^th century Venice initiated a long period of slow decadence.

Learning about the rules, habits and methods employed by the Venetian State to maintain justice, peace and order will be one of the major interests of this tour. To follow, a brief visit to the New Prisons, across the famed Bridge of Sighs, will be the occasion to give you some hints about the prisoners’ life conditions.

Once we finish with our Relaxed Doges’ Palace, St Mark’s Square will be quieter, more intimate and cocooning. This is a perfect timing for a picture of St Mark’s Basilica, illuminated by the sunrays, and for a leisurely break at the Gran Café’ Quadri. The Quadri, one of the historical coffee shops of the Piazza, was established in 1775 by Giorgio Quadri, who decided to sell ‘black boiling water’ for the first time in Venice. It was a great success.

You will be told more about the history of coffee while sitting outside in the square or inside. We shall listen to the exceptional orchestra rivalling with its ‘twin’ at Café’ Florian, on the opposite side of the Square. The two coffee shops played an important role during the Austrian dominion in the 19^th century.

Nowadays the Gran Café’ can also boast a starred restaurant – just a few tables up on the 2^nd floor with unforgettable views. Carefully restored by Philippe Starck and directed by Max Alajmo, it will be an ideal spot where to continue your Venetian evening. We recommend it for very special romantic celebrations!