Photo: Famous Rialto Bridge Venice Italy Europe

The famous Rialto Bridge in Venice, Italy in Europe is one of the best know bridges in the world and probably the most interesting in Italy.

The famous Rialto Bridge is one of the three bridges that crosses the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy in Europe. The other two bridges the Scalzi and Accademia were not completed until the 1930s. There is also the Ponte di Calatrava under construction which is due to be opened sometime in 2008.

The Ponte di Rialto was designed by Anatonio da Ponte, a rather appropriate name for a bridge architect, and took three years to build - from 1588 to 1591. A unique design - the huge bridge was constructed on 12,000 wood pilings and consists of a walkway down the lengthwise centre of the bridge separating two rows of little shops. These businesses are most popular with tourists as they sell fine linens, jewellery, glassware and other Venetian souvenirs. ... continue below the picture...

This picture is part of the photo album "Venice Pictures" - there are more beautiful images waiting for you.

...

As well as the central aisle, there are two ornate outside walkways, and with the graceful arches the Ponte di Rialto is arguably one of the most attractive bridges to be seen anywhere in the world.

The Rialto district in Venice, Italy in Europe has always been the market area, and therefore had some form of a bridge across the Grand Canal, even as far back as the 12th century. Originally there was a 'bridge' made from boats lashed together and during the following years, until the 16th century, there were three wooden bridges built. The Rialto Bridge is one of the most visited and famous landmarks in Venice, Italy in Europe.

Ponte di Rialto, Rialto Bridge, Grand Canal, Venice, Veneto, Italy, Europe.