The Rialto Bridge

The star of Venice’s tourism adverts, the Rialto Bridge is an iconic symbol of the City of the Doges. But it hasn’t always been this famous… The monument has a very long and complicated history. Back in the 12th century, a series of boats were tied together to connect the bustling Rialto district with the Saint Mark district, the political heart of the city. This impractical solution was soon replaced by a proper wooden bridge, which went through several restorations and even a collapse. In 1524, Venice decided to build a proper stone arch. The city looked to some of Italy’s most famous architects for the job, including Palladio and Michelangelo. Yet Venice finally settled on Antonio da Ponte, one of the architects of the Doge’s Palace. Given the swampy terrain, the structure’s weight, and constant boat traffic, the bridge’s blueprints were revised several times. It was finally built in 1588, measuring 48 metres long and 22 metres wide, supported by 6,000 wooden stilts and reaching 7.5 metres high. Two ramps, one on each side, lead up to a central portico, creating its distinctive arched shape, making it a practical and beautiful part of the city’s architecture. Once you’ve taken a photo of Venice’s oldest bridge, climb the few steps that lead to its summit—and take a moment to enjoy the majestic view over the canal.