The Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri) in Venice is an arched bridge connecting the Doge's Palace to the New Prison across the narrow Rio di Palazzo. The enclosed nature of the bridge sets it apart from other Venetian bridges, which are generally open. The bridge’s name, “Bridge of Sighs,” refers to the sighs of prisoners who, according to legend, would catch a last glimpse of Venice through its stone-barred windows as they were led to their cells or the execution chamber.
The architect Antonio Contino, a nephew of Antonio da Ponte (who designed the Rialto Bridge), created the bridge in a distinctive Baroque style. It is made of white limestone and features intricate carvings and bas-reliefs.
Bridge of Sighs in the late afternoon
Bridge of Sighs at night
Prisoners crossing the bridge included high-profile figures like the adventurer and writer Giacomo Casanova, who famously escaped from its cells in 1756.
You may also like