Visiting the Guglie Bridge
Gargoyles and gondolas as a backdrop
Venice is indisputably a city for romantics, but if there is one spot that captures the heart, it is the Guglie Bridge. Spanning the Canale di Cannaregio, it stands as the only bridge in the entire city adorned with the stone spires that give it its name. It is an architectural curiosity in a popular, high-energy neighborhood. Grab a seat on a gondola to take in the full beauty of the structure and the sculpted faces that line its arch.
History and construction
The 800-meter-long canal is the only internal waterway in Venice that winds through the sestiere (district) di Cannaregio. A bridge has existed here since 1285. That original wooden structure was replaced by a stone version in 1580, but it took until 1823 for the famous spires to be added. The Guglie Bridge, or Bridge of Spires, finally found its visual identity and its name with those distinct points at the base of the railings that make it unique.
While less famous than the Ponte dei Trei Archi (Bridge of the Three Arches) that also crosses the canal, it possesses a distinct charm and refined elegance. Its sculpted balustrades are perfect for taking in the view, as boat traffic on the water is constant and the gargoyles lining the arch are full of character. In 1987, it underwent a final restoration to improve accessibility for visitors with limited mobility.
The gateway to Cannaregio
Photographers and painters love to capture this spot, but it also serves as a gateway to a part of Venice that feels less commercial than the tourist hubs while remaining just as fascinating. From one bank to the other, you will find plenty of restaurants and cafes. Cannaregio is as lively as it is historic, serving as the site of the city's Jewish ghetto until 1797.
This bridge is less impressive than the Rialto Bridge, but I found it more beautiful because it fits in better with the surrounding buildings. The bridge is wide and has large steps. When you cross it, you come out onto a shopping street where you can enjoy some great Italian gelato! I found this bridge less overwhelming than the Rialto Bridge.