Council of Ten (Councillors)

The Council of Ten was a powerful governing body in the Venetian Republic, established in the late 13th century. It consisted of ten elected officials responsible for overseeing political, military, and legal matters, effectively guiding the city's policies and maintaining stability. The council operated with a high degree of secrecy and had significant influence over state decisions, working alongside other councils and magistracies. Its authority helped Venice maintain a stable and efficient government for centuries, especially during periods of expansion and conflict. The Council of Ten's structure exemplified Venice's complex political system that balanced power among different institutions.