Rialto Bridge - Venice - Italy
by Paolo Signorini
Title
Rialto Bridge - Venice - Italy
Artist
Paolo Signorini
Medium
Photograph - Photography
Description
Properties inscribed on the World Heritage List - Italy - Venice and its Lagoon 1987
The first dry crossing of the Grand Canal was a pontoon bridge built in 1181 by Nicolò Barattieri. It was called the Ponte della Moneta, presumably because of the mint that stood near its eastern entrance.
The development and importance of the Rialto market on the eastern bank increased traffic on the floating bridge, so it was replaced in 1255 by a wooden bridge,his structure had two inclined ramps meeting at a movable central section, that could be raised to allow the passage of tall ships. The connection with the market eventually led to a change of name for the bridge. During the first half of the 15th century two rows of shops were built along the sides of the bridge. The rents brought an income to the State Treasury, which helped maintain the bridge.Maintenance was vital for the timber bridge. It was partly burnt in the revolt led by Bajamonte Tiepolo in 1310. In 1444 it collapsed under the weight of a crowd watching a boat parade and it collapsed again in 1524.The idea of rebuilding the bridge in stone was first proposed in 1503. Several projects were considered over the following decades. In 1551 the authorities requested proposals for the renewal of the Rialto Bridge, among other things. Plans were offered by famous architects such as Jacopo Sansovino, Palladio and Vignola, but all involved a Classical approach with several arches, which was judged inappropriate to the situation. Even the great Michelangelo was considered as designer of the bridge.The present stone bridge, a single span designed by *Antonio da Ponte* was finally completed in 1591. It is remarkably similar to the wooden bridge it succeeded. Two inclined ramps lead up to a central portico. On either side of the portico the covered ramps carry rows of shops. The engineering of the bridge was considered so audacious that architect Vincenzo Scamozzi predicted future ruin. The bridge has defied its critics to become one of the architectural icons of Venice.
Uploaded
February 20th, 2022
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Comments (16)
Wendy Wilton
Great memories of our visit to Venice Paolo. Lovely capture and light. All the best for the coming year, Wendy
Jenny Revitz Soper
BRAVO! Your artwork has earned a FEATURE on the homepage of the FAA Artist Group No Place Like Home, 3/15/2022! You may also post it in the Group's Features discussion thread and any other thread that fits! l/f
Denise Harty
Congratulations on your feature in the Covered Bridges or Historical Buildings group! L/F
Holly April Harris
Congratulations! I’m am very pleased to feature your beautiful image in the group Covered Bridges and Historical Buildings. It’s a wonderful addition to the group! Thank you!