Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio (English: Old Bridge) is a famous bridge in Florence, spanning the Arno river.

History

Construction

This famous bridge spans the Arno at its narrowest point. The original version was presumably constructed by the Romans, but records of its existence did not appear until 996.

Two previous incarnations of the bridge were swept away in floods before the present structure was built in 1345, with a tower being constructed at the southeast corner to defend it. Consisting of three segmental arches, the bridge had shops lining the central passageway, which was a common feature during the Renaissance.

When the Medici family bought the Palazzo Pitti in 1549, the interior of the bridge's upper levels was redesigned. The new plans included a secret walkway crossing the bridge, serving as a link in a series of tunnels built by the Medici so they could travel from the Palazzo Pitti to the Palazzo della Signoria undetected.

Auditore-Pazzi confrontation

Ezio and Lorenzo talking on the bridge

On 26 December 1476, the bridge was the site of a large street fight between the friends of Ezio Auditore da Firenze, and of Vieri de' Pazzi, who had recently developed a strong rivalry over the issues involving their fathers.

Two years later, Ezio met with the ruler of Florence, Lorenzo de' Medici, on the bridge to discuss the Pazzi conspiracy.

Bonfire of the Vanities

In 1497, the bridge was blockaded by the Condottiero, one of the lieutenants of Girolamo Savonarola, who demanded payment for passage. However, the Condottiero was later killed by the Assassin Ezio Auditore.

Trivia

• In Assassin's Creed: Identity, the Ponte Vecchio can be seen in Florence, though it can't be visited.

Gallery

• 
  Database image of Ponte Vecchio in Assassin's Creed II
• 
  Database image of Ponte Vecchio in Assassin's Creed: Identity
• 
  Ezio assassinating the condottiero on the Ponte Vecchio
• 
  Paola and La Volpe leading citizens across the Ponte Vecchio

Appearances

• Assassin's Creed II (first appearance)
  • Bonfire of the Vanities
• Assassin's Creed: Identity