Rialto Bridge

The Rialto Bridge (italiano. 'Ponte di Rialto') is one of the four bridges spanning the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy. It is the oldest bridge across the canal and probably the most famous in the city.

History

The first dry crossing of the Grand Canal was a pontoon bridge built in 1181 by Nicolò Barattieri.It was called the Ponte della Moneta, presumably because of the mint that stood near its eastern entrance.

The development and importance of the Rialto market on the eastern bank increased traffic on the floating bridge. So it was replaced in 1255 by a wooden bridge. This structure had two inclined ramps meeting at a movable central section, that could be raised to allow the passage of tall ships. The connection with the market eventually led to a change of name for the bridge. During the first half of the 15th century two rows of shops were built along the sides of the bridge. The rents brought an income to the State Treasury, which helped maintain the bridge.

Maintenance was vital for the timber bridge. It was partly burnt in the revolt led by Bajamonte Tiepolo in 1310. In 1444 it collapsed under the weight of a crowd watching a boat parade and it collapsed again in 1524.

The idea of rebuilding the bridge in stone was first proposed in 1503. Several projects were considered over the following decades. In 1551 the authorities requested proposals for the renewal of the Rialto Bridge, among other things. Plans were offered by famous architects such as Jacopo Sansovino, Palladio and Vignola, but all involved a Classical approach with several arches, which was judged inappropriate to the situation. Even the great Michelangelo was considered as designer of the bridge.

The present stone bridge, a single span designed by Antonio da Ponte, was finally completed in 1591. It is remarkably similar to the wooden bridge it succeeded. Two inclined ramps lead up to a central portico. On either side of the portico the covered ramps carry rows of shops. The engineering of the bridge was considered so audacious that architect Vincenzo Scamozzi predicted future ruin. The bridge has defied its critics to become one of the architectural icons of Venice.

with the Rialto bridge to the left ]]

References

Шаблон:Reflist

External links

Шаблон:Commons

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Chris Haines
1 March 2015
Incredibly beautiful and scenic views here. This is the famous bridge of Venice and the architecture of it is incredible. Does get very busy with people, and there are tourist shops along it.
Wendy P
5 August 2017
An architectural icons of Venice and one of the most visited tourist attractions of the city. You will never miss this bridge if you are crossing between San Marco and San Polo. Enjoy the view!
Naohiro Watanabe
4 April 2015
The bridge is always packed with tourists and gives great views and pictures along the Grand Canal - Well worth the visit.
Amit Gaharwar
27 May 2017
One of the two most recognized landmarks of Venice. The bridge itself is choked with people :). Go either early or very late in the day. Best photos from Rialto ACTV station.
Tom Brd
26 March 2019
One of the must-see sights in Venice. I recommend to take the water bus line 1 starting at Pizzale Roma and sit in the very front. You can take pictures like from a postcard.
Murat
11 June 2016
The most touristic bridge in the city. A must see touristic attraction. Great place to enjoy the city and the canals and people watching. One of the best places for picture taking.
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