Rialto Bridge

Originally the bridge which linked the San Marco and Rialto district was made of wood- a central drawbridge allowed the big boats of the merchants to pass trough. Then in 1524 it was proposed to rebuild the bridge in stone in a more impressive style. Several projects were presented by Michelangelo, Sansovino and Palladio among others. Finally, though, the Signoria of the Serenissima chose the design of Antonio da Ponte, who began work on the bridge in 1588 and completed it in 1591.
Throughout the history of Venice as an independent republic, Rialto was always a centre of commercial activity. The shops, originally placed over the arch of the bridge, were the premises of major banks and commercial or financial firms.
Near by the bridge on the opposite side of San Marco you can find the large fish market of Venice and the main post office.

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