In just a few minutes walk from our elegant private residence in the historic center of Florence, you can reach and cross the Arno River on the world's most famous bridge, Ponte Vecchio. This magical and romantic place is one of the most famous symbols of the city of Florence.
The construction dates back to Roman times, but ever since it was repeatedly damaged by river floods until it was rebuilt in 1345 by Taddeo Gaddi, according to some, while according to others the creator of this wonderful work was Fiorante.
History tells that in 1442 the authorities of the city of Florence, in order to make the city cleaner, made all the butchers move their workshops on the bridge to isolate them from the austere palaces of noble citizens. Ever since Palazzo Vecchio became the meat market.
Later in 1593, by order of Ferdinand I, the shops were occupied by jewelers and goldsmiths to give more prestige to the city and even today you can find the same shops.
At the center of the bridge, the sequence of shops is interrupted by two panoramic terraces. The one facing west, is home to the famous bust of Benvenuto Cellini, the most prominent Florentine goldsmith.
Crossing the Ponte Vecchio, finally, you will be captured by the beauty of the Oltrarno. This is how th the left side of the River Arno is called. Here you can find magnificent monuments and attractions, just think of the Boboli Gardens and the Pitti Palace, which clearly recall the Florentine Renaissance spirit.