The original building dates back to 1291 when it was constructed by the Spinola and Doria families. It became known as the Palazzo Ducale in 1339 with the arrival of Simon Boccanegra, the first Doge of Genoa and began expanding in all directions. You can visit the part of it which was used as a prison, along with the late 13th century Grimaldina tower. In 1591 it was finally closed in on 4 sides with the internal courtyards and porticos that you see today. Go up the central staircase to see the imposing neoclassical rooms of Maggior and Minor Consiglio where the G8 meeting was held in 2001. The facade in Piazza Matteotti was redesigned by Simone Cantoni after a fire in 1777 and the decorated Piazza De Ferrari side not built until the piazza itself was constructed in the 19th century. Nowadays this important seat of power is host to exhibitions, archives, meetings and events. There are bars and restaurants along the way, ticket office, book shop and a monthly antique market.