In the historic San Polo district, not far from Santa Croce, there is a corner that arouses curiosity: one of the many bridges in the city that retains a very particular name. The Ponte delle Tette, in fact, recalls an often forgotten aspect of the Serenissima. Discover, then, why the bridge is called thatwhat is its history and what is nearby.
The history of the Bridge of Tits
The name of the Ponte delle Tette, decidedly evocative, does not derive from a construction peculiarity but its origin must be traced back to an ancient curiosity about the city. In the 15th century the government decided to place some brothels here, to prevent prostitutes from staying in the center.
The bridge is therefore called so not only for the simple presence of brothels, but also for the prostitutes’ custom of showing their breasts to attract customers. According to some historical sources, then, the initiative was not only tolerated, but also encouraged by the governmentwho – with this measure – tried to “disincentivize” homosexuality in the city.
The houses of tolerance in Venice
The tradition of brothels in Venice is therefore very old and dates back to the fifteenth century. The area was identified when many buildings in the Rampani family, left without heirs, passed to the Serenissima. The government, therefore, decided to use them as brothels to create a sort of red light district ahead of its time.
This is also the historical reason why Venetian prostitutes were called “carampane”, from the name of the buildings in which the houses stood. However, this neighborhood ceased to fulfill this role since Eighteenth century, when the birth of a different morality no longer deemed it necessary to confine this activity to a peripheral neighborhood. The bridge in question, however, continued to maintain this iconic name.
What to see in the San Polo district
In the beating heart of Venice, the San Polo district offers visitors a variety of things to see and do. In addition to the famous Ponte delle Tette there are multiple points of interest that are worth a visit. The most famous place is perhaps the Rialto bridge, which connects San Polo to San Marco. It is one of the symbols of Venice and is also among the most photographed.
Nearby is also the Rialto Market, still very lively and popular today. Adjacent to the Church of San Polo there is also the campo of the same name, among the largest in the ancient Venetian centre. Finally, don’t miss the Scuola Grande di San Roccowhose interiors were decorated by Tintoretto and houses works by Tiepolo and Titian.
How to get to the Ponte delle Tette
To reach the Ponte delle Tette in Venice, one of the easiest ways is to use the city’s public transport. you can take line 1 and get off at the San Silvestro stop or alternatively the Rialto Market stop. Alternatively, you can reach the area with a 15-minute walk from the station Venice Santa Lucia.
Living in Venice
The city on the lagoon preserves many curiosities and secrets, as well as being a leading tourist destination. Its mild climate and canal system make it a characteristic place to decide to move to or spend your holidays. With idealista you will be able to discover the best neighborhoods to live in Venice and choose the house that best suits your interests:
