The Rialto Bridge, known in Italian as Ponte di Rialto, stands out as the oldest of the four bridges that cross the Grand Canal in Venice, and is possibly the most famous in the city.

Its history dates back to 1181, when Nicolò Barattieri built a pontoon or floating bridge initially called Ponte della Moneta, due to its proximity to the Venetian mint. However, the growth of the Rialto Market increased river traffic, leading to the replacement of the floating bridge around 1250 with a wooden one. This wooden bridge, with a movable central section, allowed the passage of tall ships and eventually adopted the name Rialto due to its connection with the market.

Over the years, the bridge faced numerous challenges, such as partial fires during riots and collapses due to the weight of congregated crowds. In 1524, a new wooden version was built, which also collapsed.

The idea of rebuilding the bridge in stone was first mooted in 1503, but did not materialize until the design of Antonio da Ponte, who built the current bridge between 1588 and 1591. This stone bridge, with a single arch, retains the layout of the inclined ramps and commercial cubicles, replicating the structure of the earlier wooden bridge. Despite initial doubts about its viability, the design proved successful and the Rialto Bridge has become an architectural symbol of Venice.

Its peculiarity lies in the fact that it visually appears to defy architectural tradition by presenting a lowered arch, although in reality it is still a round arch, where the bases are hidden by the water level. This visual innovation has contributed to its recognition as an icon of the city.