Behind the Image: Rialto Bridge
Rialto Bridge | Venice, Italy - October 2019
Ponte di Rialto is the oldest bridge stretching across Venice’s Grand Canal. Due to poor structural support in the center of the bridge, it has a history of collapsing and being rebuilt.
The bridge’s last re-design drew fierce competition from several famous artists including renowned Italian sculptor, Michelangelo. Antonio da Ponte, a Venetian designer was eventually granted the task of the bridge’s restoration. Antonio’s marble construction still stands today, with a design recalling the beauty of the original bridge.
As I read about the constant reconstruction of this bridge, I couldn’t help but wonder why. Imagine the cost and the amount of effort it took to continue to rebuild and rework this bridge. However, I then thought of the beautiful end result and I’m so glad they did not give up on this grand symbol of Italian history and national pride.
The history of this bridge reminds me of America.
With everything that has happened this year alone, some days it feels like we are on the brink of collapse. But perhaps this is our opportunity.
While the cost will undoubtedly be great and so much work lies ahead, maybe this is our chance to build something that finally supports the weight of all of its people. Maybe in starting over, we can collaborate to build a stronger, more meaningful version of our original ideals. Maybe we can rebuild something beautiful that finally stands.
