Rialto Bridge

Approaching Rialto Bridge from the South

The Rialto Bridge is among Venice's most famous landmarks. Linking Santa Croce to San Marco, it is located in the historical heart of Venice, at the narrowest point in the Grand Canal. Competition to design the bridge was hotly contested. Leading 16th century artists Michelangelo, Sansovino and Palladio all submitted designs, but lost out to Antonio da Ponte (a good name for an Italian bridge architect). There were two previous bridges on this site; a timber bridge which collapsed in 1444 under the weight of a crowd, and a drawbridge (featured in a number of medieval paintings) raised for the passage of tall-masted ships.

 

The view of the Rialto Bridge from the south

A view of the deserted interior stairway, early morning

The Rialto Bridge area is a very crowded one, as it is the only direct route for people transiting from Piazza San Marco to the churches of Santa Croce. In addition, the immediate area around the bridge is also a beehive of human activity. On the Santo Croce side to the north of the Rialto Bridge is the Rialto Market, one of Europe's largest produce markets, and also a center of law. The southern side of the Rialto bridge is awash with hotel and side-walk cafes, as well as a popular gondolier stop. Like Piazza San Marco, it is a place to see and be seen. The photo to the left captures a bit of the hustle and bustle of the San Marco side of the bridge, looking south, while the photo to the right shows the interior stairway of the Rialto Bridge, with its many shops. Shot early in the morning, it is impossible to get a glimpse of these famed stairs once the visitors commence their daily rounds. The difference between the two sides of the bridge is striking; the southern side is informal, flowing with people, and centered upon la dolce vita. The northern side is less accessible to the public with its law courts, although the markets are accessible Below is a 360 video of the Rialto Bridge produced by Venezia Autentica



360 Walkthrough of the Rialto Bridge