The Bridge of Sighs
Bridge, Architectural Landmark

Designed in 1600 by Italian architect Antonio Contino, The Bridge of Sighs is one of the most iconic of Venice’s 400-plus bridges. Officially the Ponte dei Sospiri, the bridge apparently got its English name after Lord Byron referred to it as such in his epic, four-part poem Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage.Despite its beautiful, Baroque style and romantic exterior belies its original purpose — to transport prisoners between the Doge Palace and its new prison cells across the Rio di Palazzo. Nowadays, there’s a much nicer story behind the bridge. Legend has it if couples share a kiss underneath The Bridge of Sighs, their love will last forever.