Interesting facts about Rialto Bridge

rialto bridge

Rialto Bridge, Italian Ponte di Rialto, stone-arch bridge crossing over the narrowest point of the Grand Canal in the heart of Venice.

It is the oldest of the four bridges spanning the Grand Canal. The Grand Canal is one of the major water-traffic corridors in the city.

The bridge that stands today still, was designed like the bridge from 1255.

Built in the closing years of the 16th century, the Rialto Bridge is renowned as an architectural and engineering achievement of the Renaissance.

It was designed and built by Antonio da Ponte and his nephew, Antonio Contino, following a design competition in the city.

Rialto Bridge has span of 31.80 meters (104.3 ft).

The lower chord of the bridge is only 25 meters (82 feet) in length, while the width is 20 meters (66 feet).

The bridge has been rebuilt several times since its first construction as a pontoon bridge in the 12th century.

The bridge has three walkways: two along the outer balustrades, and a wider central walkway leading between two rows of small shops that sell jewelry, linens, Murano glass, and other items for the tourist trade.

Today, the bridge is one of the top tourism attractions in Venice.