Famously known as the ‘Lover’s Bridge’ Rialto Bridge is one of the pristine beautiful bridges in Venice. The Ponte di Rialto is the spirit of Venice. The present structure of the bridge was built between 1588 and 1591 that replaced the boat and three wooden bridges that had extended about the Grand Canal since the 12th Century.
About the Rialto Bridge
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The Rialto was built by Antonio da Ponte in the year 1180. There are many canals flowing into the Grand Canal. There are 400 bridges covering 120 isles. Two very popular squares in Venice- San Marco and San Polo are connected by Rialto Bridge at the highest point. The bridge is shaped as a bow with steps on both the sides and there is heavy water traffic that passes underneath. This bridge was the most happening point in history. Along with the most of the trading in Venice or the new laws were to be broadcast or if the prisoners were to be punished this bridge was the place.
The Rialto Bridge is a majestic, vaulted stone bridge with pergola on either side. The high point of the central arch reached via ample stairs on either side of the bridge serves as a sentinel perch.
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Things To Do On Your Trip To Rialto Bridge
With so many things to explore and experiences to have around, here’s a list of some of the best ones that you ought to try on your next trip to the famous Rialto Bridge with your loved ones for an unforgettable holiday like never before!
1. Rialto Market
This 700 years old Rialto Bridge market place is the most delightful place on the bridge now. The market is studded with grocery shops, fish market and other daily cache. It is full of activities during the day. Wherever you are, on whichever street you stand in Venice all signages that direct you to Rialto Bridge. This is also used as the centre point. Under the walkways there are several shops which cater to the needs of the tourists who come to this famous bridge to have a view of the gondola-filled Grand Canal waterway.
Right in front of the Grand Canal a visit to the most enjoyable little Campi’s is never to be missed. You can take a walk through Cannaregio area to visit the ancient 7th century churches in Venice. This memorable visit to Rialto Market will go a long way with you.
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2. Selfie
This bridge was built in 1602 by the Doge Marino Grimani. This enclosed bridge has windows with stone bars, cuts across the Rio di Palazzo, and joins the New Prison (Prigioni Nuove) to the torture chambers in the Doge’s Palace.
The Bridge of Sighs has its name because the prisoners or detainees for trial used to be taken from the bridge. They had a view of the beautiful water for the last time and heaved sighs thinking of their looming dreadful detention waiting them in the inhuman cells of the Serenissima. This place is a favorite with the tourists since it’s a selfie spot. Tourists throng this place since the Canal Grande can be seen even briefly.
3. Night Walking And Gondola Ride
Night walking tours on the Rialto Bridge and the other side of the Grand Canal is something one should not miss in Venice. Nothing can be more magnificent as you stroll looking at the reflection of the marble in the canal below the bridge. Listening to the stories, legends and myths will definitely make your tour more interesting. You can rest for a while on a gondola while crossing the Grand Canal to arrive at the opposite side of Venice, where Rialto and San Polo look forward to your visit.
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4. Views
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You should not miss the most magnificent views of and from the Rialto Bridge. These views are the most quintessential images of Venice. Tourists visit the bridge, take photographs of it, and enjoy the picturesque views from it and spend time watching the panoramic scene. It is absolutely amazing to stroll across and into the district of San Polo to learn the neighborhood of the Rialto Bridge.
Suggested Read: 26 Best Places To Visit In Venice – The Most Beautiful Canal City Of The World
5. Rialto Bridge Painting
While walking around the Rialto Bridge in Venice, Italy you can choose your favorite Rialto Bridge Paintings from many available there. All Rialto Bridge paintings are world famous and you can pick up one on your way home. The Rialto Bridge, in its diverse styles, has been in paintings and photographs as one of the centre attractions all through the years.
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6. Stay Near Rialto Bridge
Most tourists prefer to stay near the Rialto Bridge and there are a number of hotels near Rialto Bridge in the historic area of Venice. There are dazzling cathedral and much admired art scene. You can choose from 1300 hotels and other similar rooms in and around the Rialto Bridge. You can choose one of them your home as long as you stay in Venice.
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7. Secret Venice Tour With Cicchetti And Wine
While taking a walk down to discover the secret of Venice you should take a guided tour and cross the Grand Canal. One should not miss the exclusive charm with a small group tour of San Polo and Rialto Market areas.
Get the real flavor of the Venetians’ pre-lunch wine exploit. Let the Rialto Market has spellbinding effect on you. You walk through it and wonder at its vivacious colors and smells.
The Rialto Bridge was the centre of port activities when Venice was a marine power. A good port for trade, international cargo stopped here to offload and sell their products. Here gathered The Venetians gathered here with silk and spices, textiles and metal works from across the Alps.
Further Read: Venice Simplon Orient Express: For Experiencing The World’s Most Luxurious Train Journey
Rialto Bridge was like a majestic ring. There used to be bullfights, elegant palaces and the canals. It still lies in total contrast to the thin streets, dark alleys, fragile bridges and small patios of the hidden Venice. And today the Rialto Bridge is one of the most visited tourist attractions of the city. Your tour of Rialto Bridge will terminate into a mesmerizing dream. Plan a trip to Italy for an amazing holiday experience like never before!
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A lawyer from outside and a writer within, Arushi is someone you’ll find eating right after she had her meal. She prefers the company of animals over humans and with a dream of traveling the world someday, she strongly recommends Bali for a chill-out vacay!
