Bridges
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Bridges provide essential links between the islets of Venice. About 400 bridges are scattered throughout the city, spanning even the narrowest canals. When flooding occurs, it is often difficult for boats in the small canals to navigate under the bridges, leaving commuters trapped and transportation systems backed up. The four, most well known bridges in Venice are the Ponte della Libertà, the Ponte di Rialto, the Ponte dell’Accademia, and the Ponte dei Sospiri. |
Small bridge, Venice (Freefoto) |
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Three important bridges
in Venice (Pagnatti/Taff) |
Ponte della LibertàThe Ponte della Libertà was constructed across a series of viaducts in 1933 to serve as a causeway between Venice’s mainland and its Historic Center. Designed to accommodate both cars and trains, the bridge diverges as it meets the island – cars are directed to the Piazza Romale and trains arrive in the Santa Lucia train station. |
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Ponte di Rialto (Michelin) |
Ponte di RialtoThe highly romanticized Ponte di Rialto connects two sections of Venice’s Rialto Market in San Polo across the Canal Grande. Bustling since the origins of the city itself, the bridge, which is now lined with shops on both sides, experiences heavy traffic. |
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Ponte dell’AccademiaThe Ponte dell’Accademia was built in 1854, during the Austrian occupation. One of the three bridges spanning the Canal Grande (along with the Rialto and the Ponte delgi Scalzi), the Austrians envisioned a wide bridge, enabling troops to move more quickly over the broad canal. |
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Ponte dei SospiriCalled the Bridge of Sighs, the Ponte dei Sospiri is discretely tucked behind Palzzo Ducale, connecting it to the prison. It is over this bridge that enemies of Imperial Venice were led to their executions. |
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