Bridge of Sighs (Venice)

Il Ponte dei Sospiri or the Bridge of Sighs is arguably the most iconic bridge in the world, and is a magnet for romantics during cheap city breaks in Venice. Constructed in 1602, it connects the Doges Palace with the adjacent prison across the narrow Rio di Palazzo waterway. Its anglicised name was coined by Lord Byron and has continued to inspire poets, writers, artists and photographers ever since. The Bridge of Sighs comprises two interior corridors separated by a partition where condemned prisoners were led. Its name conjures up that final fleeting glimpse of freedom as much as the more palatable romantic legend that all who pass underneath it will find everlasting love.

 

This diminutive enclosed bridge is encased in white limestone adorned with fearsome looking stone carvings and two small windows that let in very little natural light. It can only be viewed from two separate static vantage points - Canonica Bridge and Ponte della Paglia although for sheer magic, there is no substitute to gliding beneath the Bridge of Sighs in a gondola. This is the quintessential activity while on short breaks in Venice for all incurable romantics, and there is always a constant flow of boats gliding beneath with couples gazing up in awe.

 

The vast majority of visitors don’t actually venture into the Bridge of Sighs, preferring to admire it leisurely from the water. It can only be accessed as part of a guided tour of the Doge’s Palace. On summer city breaks in Venice, you should definitely book a day ahead as numbers are limited. It also includes a visit to the opulent halls and state apartments along with the notorious torture chamber and prison cells which are accessed by crossing the bridge. Many people return time and again to soak up the scenery during misty early mornings and at sunset. Day or night, the Bridge of Sighs has a magic all its own that perfectly sums up the enduring romantic appeal of Venice.