Bridge of Sighs

Legendary white walkway to historic Venetian prisons

The Bridge of Sighs (“Ponte dei Sospiri”) links the Doge’s Palace (“Palazzo Ducale”) with the historic jail cells of Venice. It’s only accessible if you purchase a ticket to visit the palace, which is a must-do when you’re in the city.

While the bridge is entirely enclosed, there is a small window where prisoners could steal one last glance of the lagoon before they reached the cells below. It’s thought to have been named in recognition of the sighs that the prisoners made as they took this journey.

The structure was built in the 1600s in the Baroque style. The ornamentation and striking white limestone are inkeeping with the surrounding architecture and make for a beautiful photo opportunity.

Keep in mind that it is a popular spot, so we suggest visiting early in the morning or late in the evening if you’d like to take photographs here.

Despite its dark history, the bridge has become highly romanticised over the years. Legend has it that couples who pass under the bridge on a gondola and share a kiss at sunset, will share eternal love. It’s not known where this legend originated, but it’s become a fixture of lore among locals and visitors alike.