The Old Prisons of Venice: The Place of No Return
Hidden behind the beauty of Venice lies a darker past, one filled with stories of imprisonment, punishment, and escape. The old prisons of Venice, including those connected to the Doge’s Palace and the infamous Piombi and Pozzi cells, give travellers a glimpse into the city’s justice system during the Venetian Republic.
If you’re looking to go beyond the gondolas and bridges, exploring these prisons will take you into a shadowy, mysterious side of Venice that once held criminals, political prisoners, and even legendary escapees.
The Prisons of the Doge’s Palace: From Justice to Darkness
The Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) was not just the home of the ruling doge (venetian president)—it was also the centre of government, justice, and law enforcement. Within its grand walls, trials were conducted, sentences were pronounced, and prisoners were led to their fates.
The Bridge of Sighs: A Final Glimpse of Freedom
One of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri), connects the Doge’s Palace to the prison buildings. Prisoners sentenced to incarceration0—or worse—would walk across this enclosed bridge after their trials, catching one last glimpse of the Venetian Lagoon through the small stone-barred windows.
According to legend, the sighs of the condemned could be heard as they crossed, knowing they would never see freedom again. While today the bridge is often associated with romance (thanks to the myth that a kiss beneath it at sunset ensures eternal love), its real history is far more chilling.
The Two Main Prisons: The Pozzi and the Piombi
The old prisons of Venice were divided into two sections:
1. The Pozzi (“The Wells”) – Cold, Dark, and Unforgiving
The Pozzi, or “wells,” were underground stone cells located beneath the Doge’s Palace. These tiny, damp chambers had barely any light or ventilation, making them some of the most miserable places to be imprisoned. Only the most unfortunate prisoners—often common criminals—were placed here, suffering in complete darkness with little hope of survival.
2. The Piombi (“The Leads”) – A Prison Under the Roof
The Piombi, or “leads,” were located under the lead-covered roof of the palace. Unlike the Pozzi, these cells were slightly better, though still unbearable due to extreme temperatures. In summer, the lead roof made the cells unbearably hot, while in winter, they were freezing.
Despite their harsh conditions, the Piombi were mainly reserved for political prisoners or high-status captives, including the most famous prisoner to escape them—Giacomo Casanova.
Casanova’s Great Escape: A Prison Break for the Ages
Venice’s most legendary prisoner, Giacomo Casanova, was not just a famous lover but also a master escape artist. In 1755, he was arrested for “affronting religion and morals” and sentenced to the Piombi.
After 15 months of imprisonment, Casanova and a fellow inmate crafted an escape plan. They dug through the ceiling using a sharpened metal rod, crawled across the roof of the Doge’s Palace, and eventually walked right out of the building dressed as noblemen. Their daring escape became one of the most famous prison breaks in history.
Today, visitors can step into Casanova’s former cell and imagine what it must have been like to be imprisoned in the heart of Venice.
Visiting the Old Prisons Today
For travellers eager to explore this hidden side of Venice, the Doge’s Palace Secret Itineraries Tour is a must. This guided tour takes you through areas not included in the standard visit, including the Bridge of Sighs, the Piombi, the Pozzi, and Casanova’s cell.
What to Expect on the Tour
- Walk across the Bridge of Sighs, just like prisoners once did.
- Step into the dark and claustrophobic Pozzi cells.
- See the Piombi cells, where political prisoners were held.
- Hear the story of Casanova’s escape inside his actual prison cell.
Why Visit the Old Prisons of Venice?
While Venice is a city of romance, and beauty, its old prisons reveal a different side of its history—one filled with secrets, suffering, and intrigue. Standing inside these cells, you’ll feel the weight of the past and gain a deeper understanding of the power and justice of the Venetian Republic.
If you’re fascinated by history, crime, and adventure, these prisons are an essential stop on your Venetian journey. Just be grateful that, unlike the prisoners of old, you can leave whenever you want.
Practical Information
- Where? Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Square
- How to Visit? Book a Secret Itineraries Tour for full access to the old prisons.
- Best Time to Go? Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
And while you’re in Venice, don’t forget to book your once-in-a-lifetime boat tour with Vidal Venice Tours by clicking here!