The Ducal Palace of Mantova is one of Italy's most remarkable Renaissance residences. Home to the pleasure-loving Gonzagas from 1328 to 1707, this warren of courtyards, gardens and quarters boasts 500 rooms and covers no less than 34,000 square meters. Palazzo Ducale was constructed in three distinct phases - The Bonacolsi put up the Corte Vecchia in 1290. The four-towered castle was completed in 1400. Giulio Romano built the Corte Nuovo in the 17th century - and embellished over the centuries. And while striped of much of its artwork and most of its furnishings, Palazzo Ducale is still impressive. The Camera degli Sposi or Bridal Chamber, entirely frescoed by Andrea Mantegna, is but one of its gems.