Arsenale

The Arsenale bridge is a stone crossing that links different sections of the historic shipyard and rises just 2 meters above the water. It spans roughly 3 meters and enables movement between various work areas within the naval complex.

This bridge was built as part of the shipyard that Venice established in 1104, transforming the city into a dominant maritime power during the Middle Ages. It served craftspeople and workers who constructed and maintained ships here for centuries.

The bridge is part of the Arsenale complex, which now hosts international art exhibitions during the Venice Biennale and draws many visitors. The spaces serve as venues for contemporary art presentations and cultural events.

The bridge is accessible only to authorized personnel, as it sits within the private grounds of the complex. Visitors can explore the site during special events or organized tours when access is permitted.

The structure shows the precise craftsmanship of Venetian stonemasons who built bridges using simple methods that remain stable centuries later. The low height was deliberately chosen to allow boat traffic to pass underneath, a practical design feature of the yard.