VENICE: ATTRACTIONS

The Bridge of Sighs

There is an ornate bridge that links the old Prisons situated in the Doge's palace to the newer prison blocks on the other side of the canal. It was given the nickname 'the bridge of sighs' by the Romantic poet Lord Byron who coined the phrase in a verse. He imagined that the last glimpse of Venice that you can grab as you pass the lattice windows on the bridge would elicit a deep and mournful sigh for the condemned man crossing over. You can see for yourself if you take a tour of the Doge's Palace. Fortunately for you, you can cross back again!

Rialto

The beautiful stone Rialto bridge links the main part of Venice with the Rialto district. The bridge that stands now was completed in 1591. It was designed by Antonio da Ponte. Ponte had to compete with bids from other architects including Michelangelo. Stand in the middle of the bridge, look east toward St. Marks and you'll see the classic vision of Venice before you. Cross over to Rialto and into the bustling and ancient markets. Beyond the fruit and veg you'll come across the fish market and beyond that the bars among the stalls are popular with the locals.

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