Venice’s Bridges

What would Venice be without its bridges? A question many have asked before… To know the answer, we have to go back in time. The Venice we know today is very different from what it used to be. That’s because there used to be no bridges at all. Believe me, this isn’t a lie. But then, how did locals get around with the water everywhere? Well, just like today’s tourists float along in gondolas, Venice’s citizens used their own boats, or old public transport, to navigate the city’s 121 islands. Bridges gradually appeared as the city expanded, trade flows increased, and the population grew. Safety railings weren’t added until the 19th century — after quite a few people had fallen into the water. Made of stone, iron, or wood, Venice’s 438 bridges are a defining feature of the Italian city. Don’t be surprised if your calves start hurting by the end of the day!