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This week’s travel photo is of Ponte Vecchio over the River Arno in Florence, Italy. This 14th century bridge has a line of shops on each side and is a popular attraction in this beautiful city.
More about Ponte Vecchio
Ponte Vecchio is one of Florence’s most famous landmarks and the oldest bridge spanning the Arno River. Dating back to Roman times, the current structure was rebuilt in 1345, likely by architect Taddeo Gaddi, after a flood destroyed the previous version. The bridge is renowned for its unique medieval design, featuring rows of shops built directly along its edges. Originally home to butchers and tanners, the shops were replaced in 1593 by order of Grand Duke Ferdinando I, who wanted to eliminate the unpleasant odors and reserved the space exclusively for goldsmiths and jewelers—a tradition that continues today. Above the shops runs the Vasari Corridor, a secret passageway built in 1565 by architect Giorgio Vasari, allowing the Medici family to move between Palazzo Vecchio and Palazzo Pitti in privacy. Remarkably, the Ponte Vecchio survived World War II, as it was the only bridge in Florence not destroyed by retreating German forces. Today, it remains a symbol of Florence’s rich history, artistic heritage, and romantic charm.
Beautiful! I remember walking across Ponte Vecchio and almost being blinded by all the jewelry in the shops 🙂
Hi Annette. Yes there certainly is a lot of jewellery there!