The Rialto Bridge is the oldest of the four bridges spanning the Grand Canal in Venice. It was build by Antonio da Ponte, in 1591, after almost 100 years of thinking, discussion, proposals and planning. So if you think that city planning today seems to take forever, don’t complain!
During the planning process, several plans for the Rialto Bridge were submitted, including a plan by Michelangelo, which was not used. While I have seen many pictures of the bridge over the years, I was a little surprised at how small it really is, having said that the whole of Venice is really small. You could easy walk end to end in 45 minutes (including the obligatory getting lost; which will happen at some stage).
The Rialto Bridge is right next to the Rialto Market, selling fresh produce and sea food to the locals and tourists. Never the less, it is a beautiful and spectacular bridge in the heart of Venice, and a wonderful location to wonder around for a couple of hours.
ps: A pity about the Graffiti on the right :-(
Yes, it’s the most beautiful bridge in Venice, no dobt about that!
It truly is wonderful. Great acoustics under the bridge :-)