The Doge’s Palace or Palazzo Ducaleis is the most representative symbol of Venice's culture. This Palace had three fundamental roles: as the Doge residence, the seat of government and as the palace of justice. Initially, when it was built in the IX century A.D. it was more like a castle than a palace with high defensive walls and four sighting towers. Later, due to a series of fires and subsequent rebuilding, it became a splendid example of Venetian gothic architecture. On the floor of the lodges one can also admire the Hall of the Casket, the Hall of the Militia from the Sea The most important room of the Doge’s Palace is the Sala del Maggior Consiglio, one of the largest in Europe. The visit to the Ducal Palace offers art, history and relics from ancient Venice and also includes the Opera Museum and the Armory(Bridge of Sighs prison).