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River Arno and Ponte Vecchio from Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence, Italy
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River Arno and Ponte Vecchio from Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence, Italy
River Arno and Ponte Vecchio from Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence, Italy. The Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge) over the River Arno was built in the 14th century, predominantly by Taddeo Gaddi. The oldest segmental arch bridge in Europe, the bridge has a series of overhanging shops built upon it. Up to the late 16th century these were occupied by butchers until, unable to tolerate the smell, Cosimo I de Medici had them moved on. Since then the shops have been occupied by gold and silversmiths. In 1944 the Ponte Vecchio escaped destruction when the retreating Germans, under orders to destroy all the bridges over the Arno, blocked access to it by blowing up buildings at either end of the bridge instead
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 15057432
© Peter Thompson/Heritage Images
Arno Civil Engineering Florence Florentine Gaddi Peter Thompson Ponte Vecchio River Arno Taddeo Thompson Tuscany Archway Fourteenth Century Taddeo Gaddi
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the timeless beauty of the River Arno and Ponte Vecchio from Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence, Italy. The Ponte Vecchio, a magnificent 14th-century architectural masterpiece predominantly built by Taddeo Gaddi, stands as Europe's oldest segmental arch bridge. Adorned with a series of overhanging shops, this iconic landmark has witnessed centuries of history unfold. Originally occupied by butchers until Cosimo I de Medici could no longer tolerate the smell, these charming shops now house talented gold and silversmiths. During World War II, when all bridges over the Arno were ordered to be destroyed by retreating German forces, the Ponte Vecchio miraculously escaped destruction. Instead, access was blocked off by blowing up buildings at either end of the bridge. The image showcases not only the architectural grandeur of this medieval gem but also highlights its strategic location along the picturesque riverbank. The vibrant colors add depth to an already enchanting scene that transports viewers back in time to experience Florentine history firsthand. Peter Thompson skillfully captured this stunning moment in his lens, allowing us to appreciate both the engineering marvel and natural beauty surrounding it. This remarkable photograph serves as a testament to human ingenuity and resilience while preserving an important piece of Italian heritage for generations to come.
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