In this article, I present Venice's Bridge of Sighs, an emblematic bridge with a fascinating history
Here you'll find
- A presentation of the Bridge of Sighs
- Its history and anecdotes
- How to visit Venice's Bridge of Sighs easily
- Practical information: prices, opening hours, reservations
- And much more!
If you're looking for information about Venice's Bridge of Sighs, you'll love this article.
Follow the guide!
Bridge of Sighs Venice: article summary
Venice's Bridge of Sighs: history and presentation of a Venetian symbol
Venice's Bridge of Sighs - not to be confused with its English namesake in Cambridge - is one of the world's most famous bridges. of the most famous bridges of Venice.
It links the Doge's Palace to the city's former prisons, and is one of the most famous symbols of the Serenissima. And contrary to popular belief, there's nothing romantic about it!
What's the story behind Venice's Bridge of Sighs?
The construction of the Venice Bridge of Sighs began in 1602 and was completed in 1614.
The architect in charge of the project, Antonio ContinHe opted for a Baroque style for this Istrian stone and marble bridge, which served as a passageway between the court of the Doge's Palace and the prisons or torture chambers.
It consists of two separate corridorsIt's also completely enclosed. Apart from two small wire-mesh windows that give a glimpse of the Venice lagoon and the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, there are no openings.
It was also a way of making sure that the prisoners cannot escape by jumping into the canal - temptation would have been too strong, of course - but it was also a way of ensuring that passers-by couldn't hear screaming and crying convicts.
If it is named Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri in Dante's language), it was simply because the unfortunate people who passed through it had little chance of ever seeing the light of day again. beautiful Venice. Their sighs of regret or remorse certainly still haunt the corridors of this bridge!
Facts and Anecdotes about Venice's Bridge of Sighs
- The Bridge of Sighs led to the seals, under-roof dungeons in which prisoners suffocated, or to the welldamp prisons in basements where they languished in the dark
- Legend has it that the only prisoner to escape from the Bridge of Sighs was none other than the adventurous Giacomo Casanova!
- The English poet Lord Byron wrote a poem that gave the bridge a romantic image. Even today, lovers like to photograph themselves in front of it, ignoring its original, gloomy function.
- Architect Antonio Contin worked with his uncle Antonio da Ponte to build the Rialto Bridge !
How to visit Venice's Bridge of Sighs?
There are several ways to visit the Bridge of Sighsas I explain in detail.
Take the measure of its magnificent exterior, or experience it from the inside by imagining yourself in the shoes of those who had to cross it at the time, on a one-way ticket to death.
View the Pont des Soupirs from the Riva degli Schiavoni
From Saint Mark's Square you can cross the Rio della Canonica and go through the Pont de la Pailleto observe the Bridge of Sighs from the outside.
This is one of postcard views and you'll have to fight a bit to get a good photo.
Visit the interior of the Bridge of Sighs via the Doge's Palace
To discover the Bridge of Sighs in the way it deserves, I can only advise you to opt for the guided tour of the Doge's Palacewhich includes a passage over the bridge!
It's a ticket that offers access to the Palazzo Ducale and its prisons, a 2-hour guided tour and priority access to several buildings in the area, including San Marco Basilica.
Passing underneath in a gondola!
You can also opt for a gondola tour in VeniceIf you'd like to cruise the canals of the Serenissima and pass under the famous bridge.
A romantic way to discover the place... even if, as we keep saying, there's nothing very romantic about it!
How do I get to the Pont des Soupirs?
Pont des Soupirs is located at the following address: Piazza San Marco, 1, 30124 Venice
Impossible to miss, since it's one of the most popular major points of interest of the city, and the crowds around it will make it easy to identify.
It's easy to join:
- On footto Piazza San Marco
- By vaporetto (line 1 or 2), getting off at the Vallessero stop
Good to know If you plan to take the vaporetti in Venice, think of the Vaporetto Pass which allows you to take them unlimited and save big!
Bridge of Sighs Venice: Prices, booking, opening hours and practical information
Here's what you need to know before discovering Venice's Bridge of Sighs.
Rates and booking
To visit the Bridge of Sighs, you must purchase a ticket for the Doge's Palace. The rates, which vary according to the period, are as follows:
- Adult ticket (30-64 years): from 27.50 euros
- Reduced-rate ticket (6 to 29 years old / over 65): 17.50 euros
- Free for 0- 5 year olds
Reservations are mandatory and lets you choose the time and day of your visit.
Do it online, and receive your tickets immediately on your mobile devices. All you have to do is present them at the meeting point!
Opening hours
The Bridge of Sighs can be seen day or night. And I recommend that you go at nightfallwhen beautifully lit.
To visit the interior, via the Doge's Palace, the times are as follows:
- Every day, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Guided tours at 10:45 a.m. or 2:15 p.m.
Practical info
In addition to crossing the Bridge of Sighs, you will see the torture chambers and the inquisitors' room. It's spine-chilling!
What to see and do in the area?
The Bridge of Sighs is just a stone's throw from Venice's most famous square, so there's plenty to do in the surrounding area. In addition to the monuments of St. Mark's Square, here are a few suggestions:
- Take the vaporetto across to the island of San Giorgio Maggiore and visit the Basilica
- Walk along the riverbank to the famous Harry's Bar in Venicewhere Bellini and Carpaccio!
- Take a well-deserved break at the royal gardens. it's a little jewel of greenery just a stone's throw from the tourist hustle and bustle!
What to do in Venice in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?
Whatever the length of your stay, I invite you to download my special Venice guide.
It's free and in PDF format.
All you have to do is tell me below which e-mail address you'd like to receive it at.
EDIT: you can't enter your email?
Take the quiz at the top of this article and you'll be able to register your email address to receive the special Venice guide!
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