Paolo Renier 1710 – 1789

Biography

Paolo Renier was born in Venice on November 21, 1710, into a city whose maritime power and cultural influence had endured for centuries. He would spend his entire life in this remarkable republic, witnessing the final chapter of Venice’s independence as a sovereign state. His long life spanned nearly eight decades, connecting him to generations of Venetian history and tradition.

In 1778, Renier ascended to the position of Doge of Venice, becoming the 119th leader of the republic and its penultimate doge. This distinguished role placed him at the helm during a period of significant change for the Venetian state. His tenure represented the twilight of the ancient republic’s autonomous rule, a responsibility he carried until his final years.

Renier remained in his native Venice throughout his life, and he died there on February 13, 1789, at an advanced age. His earthly remains were laid to rest at the Tolentini church in Venice, a fitting resting place for one of the republic’s final doges. Through his life and leadership, Paolo Renier embodied the enduring spirit of Venice during its closing era as an independent power.