Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio is the oldest bridge of the city, constructed by the Romans over the tightest point of the Arno river, and destroyed by floods and an earthquake. It was reconstructed in 1345 with three arches and flanked by butcher shops, successively substituted by laboratories and goldsmith's shops whose works are still renowned and appreciated all over the world.

In 1565 the Corridoio Vasariano was built which connects Palazzo Pitti to the Galleria degli Uffizi. It was built passing over the shops, and back shops were added which were held up by wooden supports and suspended over the Arno.

In the centre of the bridge there is a monument dedicated to Benvenuto Cellini who was the most famous goldsmith and chiseller of Florence, and who remains incomparable for his originality and skill.