Republic of Venice
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La Serenissima Repubblica di Venezia, known as La Serenissima for short, was the collective title for the governing body of The Most Serene Republic of Venice.
Composition
The Doge
The Doge was the head of state, and chief magistrate of the Serene Republic. Over the time period of the Renaissance, three people took the office of Doge:
- Giovanni Mocenigo (ruled from 1478-1485), poisoned by Carlo Grimaldi.
- Marco Barbarigo (1485-1486), assassinated by Ezio Auditore da Firenze.
- Agostino Barbarigo (1486-1501), poisoned by Tessa Varzi and Francesco Vecellio.
The Doge's residence is located in the Palazzo Ducale.
The Council of Ten
The Council of Ten, or simply the Ten, was, from 1310 to 1797, one of the major governing bodies of the Republic of Venice. Although its actions were often secretive, it was generally considered to be fair and effective in its governance of Venice by the citizens of the Republic.
- In the Renaissance, Carlo Grimaldi was a member of the Council of Ten until his death in 1485.
State Inquisitor
The Supreme Tribunal of the Three State Inquisitors was established to guard the security of the Republic. By means of espionage, counter-espionage, internal surveillance, and a network of informers, they ensured that Venice did not come under the rule of a single "signore." One of the inquisitors - known as Il Rosso ("the red one") because of his scarlet attire - was chosen from the Doge's councillors, and two – known as Il Negri ("the black ones") because of their black attire – were chosen from the Council of Ten.
- In the Renaissance, Silvio Barbarigo Il Rosso was the "red" State Inquisitor, and therefore a member of the Doge's councillors.
Other Offices
Signoria
As in Florence, Venice had a Signoria. This was comprised of the Doge, his councilors and advisors (the Minor Council) and the leaders of the Quarantia.
Quarantia
The Quarantia operated as a supreme court for criminal and civil justice.
Collegio
An executive branch of the government, functioning like a cabinet.
Major Council
The main governing body, similar to a parliament, responsible for appointing the Doge. Membership was a hereditary right.
Pregadi
A senate elected by the Major Council in charge of day-to-day legislation.