The bridges of Venice

While Venice most certainly is the city of canals and water, it is also, logically, the city of bridges. There are more than 140 bridges in the Venice, ranging from small, quaint brickwork ones spanning narrow canals to bigger ones where boats can pass under (though sometimes requiring the passengers and driver to duck) and the regal heart of Venice, the Rialto Bridge, probably one of the most photographed icons of all Italy.

Most of these bridges have been in place for centuries. In some cases, including that of the Rialto Bridge, what you’ll see today has replaced original wooden structures. When arriving in Venice visitors tend to stop at each bridge (especially at the top, much to the annoyance of fellow ‘bridge crossers’) to take a look, snap a photograph and marvel at the picturesque scenery. But after a while the bridges become ubiquitous, one hardly notices them while walking around the city, and some residents describe them more as a hindrance than a proud part of the city heritage. I mean, having to heave a grocery bag over bridge steps can only be fun for so long.

Many of the bridges have stories attached to them. Often their names refer to a legend from long ago. The most well-known of these is probably the Ponte dei Sospir – Bridge of Sighs -  which long ago was the crossing point for convicts on their way to jail. On a more positive note there’s also a legend that says that lovers who kiss on the bridge are assured eternal love. When visiting Venice. Make your visit more interesting by seeking out these ‘bridge stories’.

Recently a new bridge has joined the family in Venice. It’s impossible to miss, as it cuts through the air across the Grand Canal near the bus stop in a vivacious curve of steel and glass. Being an architectural anomaly among the renaissance and baroque buildings and decorations around it, the  bridge was bound to draw criticism and sharp comment from all. It doesn’t help, of course, that the Ponte di Calatrava – that’s the name of the bridge – was designed by a Spanish architect named (adding insult to injury) Calatrava. There has also been reports of people sustaining injuries while crossing the bridge  because of the slippery steps.

yet in a practical way it’s made life a lot easier, eliminating long walks and vaporetto rides in order to cross the Grand Canal when coming from, or going to the rail and bus stations.

So make a mental note before your visit to notice the bridges you’re crossing – you’re most probably stepping across a colourful and interesting part of Venice history.

Filed under: General info • Venice landmarks

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