St. Mark’s Square may be the most notable Venetian landmark, but the Rialto Bridge is the real heart of the city, which has been beating for five centuries. It is the oldest pedestrian bridge across the Grand Canal, and until 1854, when the Academia Bridge was built, it had been the only one. Today, four bridges are thrown over the Grand Canal, but the Rialto Bridge remains the most famous and popular among tourists.

The modern externalization of the Rialto Bridge was designed by the local architect and engineer Antonio da Ponte. He had to compete with such great masters as Michelangelo and Palladio for the right to take on this job. Several previous wooden bridges were destroyed one after another due to various causes. But the Rialto Bridge, as we know it today, will delight citizens and guests of Venice for ages because it was built of solid Istrian stone.

The massive structure of the bridge stands on something like twelve thousand woodpiles, which have supported it for over four hundred years. The bridge is designed so that small boats can safely sail under its arch that is seven-meter high. Even today, experts consider the Rialto Bridge a miracle of engineering and architectural design.

The Venetians recommend enjoying the Rialto Bridge either early in the day or after sunset. Otherwise, you risk facing a crowd of tourists from all over the world, making it overly crowded here. However, this does not stop the many visitors of the city: the beautiful views of Venice, opening from here, are worth competing for with other travelers.

Seasoned tourists recommend letting the crowd be and enjoying the view of the Rialto Bridge from the water. In this case, go on a boat trip or a tour around Venice, which you will not fail to find.

Don’t worry about losing sight of the Rialto Bridge: it’s simply impossible! Located in the very center of the city, it connects the famous historical districts of Venice: San Marco and San Polo. Moreover, many nearby sights and streets are equipped with signs leading you directly to the destination.