The Bridge of Venice
Charles Freeman visits a city that has been defined by its waterways – and above all, by its bridge.
'The Senate decided to take down the aforementioned timber bridge, to build a new one all of stone, which would be of great ornament to the city, and a marvel to all who would see it. And so three of the most senior Senators were elected ... and ordered designs and models from the most famous architects. Thus with great diligence, they accepted, examined and considered various models made by skilled and famous men, and they finally elected the most beautiful and noble, the design of Antonio known as da Ponte, extremely experienced in his profession.’ (Francesco Sansovino, Venetia, Citta nobilissima, revised 1663).
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