The Bridge That Sighs In Venice

The canals of Venice are one of her most distinctive and defining features. They are the first thing that comes to mind when that great city is mentioned and, while the gondola might be the most obvious way of traversing these waterways, bridges are also key to making your way around the city. As a result, these too, have become one of the city's iconic features with the likes of the Rialto Bridge featuring in endless postcards, family photos and movie scenes. Another of the most famous bridges in Venice, however, is the slight less well-known “Bridge of Sighs” by the Doge's Palace. In order to discover this intriguing piece of Venetian history and architecture for yourself, first find a holiday rental in Venice and then spend some time on her canals.

The Bridge of Sighs was designed by Antonio Contino, nephew of Antonio da Ponte who designed the Rialto Bridge. It was built at the beginning of the seventeenth century, across Rio di Palazzo (or Palace River), to connect the Old Prison and interrogation rooms of the Doge's Palace to the New Prison, across the river. Needless to say, its name is probably the most intriguing part and there are several theories as to how it got this name. The first of these is that the criminals held in the prisons had to walk across the bridge on their way to the executioner and would sigh as they crossed the bridge, taking in their last view of Venice.

This origin story is dated to the 19th century when summary executions at the hands of the inquisitors had ceased and most of the cells were being occupied by small-time criminals. However, some probably did take in their last moments of freedom for many years while crossing the bridge.

Another story states that if a couple kisses under the bridge while drifting below on a gondola at sunset, they will enjoy eternal love. In this scenario, therefore, the sighs are said to be much more positive in nature, coming from lovers who are touched by the romance of the moment.

Either way, the bridge is known for its beauty and is an important moment in the history of bridge architecture. A Renaissance structure built of white limestone, it is punctuated by two windows and has a rounded roof with a scrolled pediment on top. It also features decorative elements including mascarons.

Whether you're a fan of architecture or you're dying to ensure your eternal love, this beautiful bridge should be one you make time to pass by as you explore the canals of Venice.