Ponte Di Rialto

Venice is located on Rialto Island, the name of which is derived from the Latin rivus altus, meaning high bank. In the 10th century, a market developed spontaneously on the adjacent island and so, in 1264, the first wooden bridge linking the two landmasses was built. This wooden bridge collapsed in 1444 from the weight of crowds watching a wedding procession. It was replaced in 1588, by Antonio da Ponte's design, for the current single-stone arched bridge we see today. It is lined with tiny shops, most of which are tourist related, but was originally the location for the Merchant of Venice to peddle his wares. Until 1854, this was the only point at which the Grand Canal could be crossed on foot.