In the 15th century the Council of Ten had taken control over the government of Venice. Did they ever lose this power over the state or were they the true rulers of Venice until the dissolution of the republic in 1797?

by mattheus21
Alistercrawlly

They maintained influence though not complete control - the doge had the ultimate power. They were supposedly disbanded by Napoleon in 1797 but are believed to have continued their activities under the guise of a secret society- one that exists to this day, although in a much different form as a “historic mutual benefit” organization. See https://thecounciloften.org