DAY 3: FIRENZE (Pt.2)

The Ponte Vecchio (meaning the Old Bridge) was the only bridge across the Arno River until 1218. We were told that the Medici family (early 15th century political/economic powerhouse) didn't like the stench of the fish and meat vendors in town and forced them onto the bridge, so that they could dispose of their waste in the river. Later the tanners joined them for the same purpose. They were all eventually replaced with jewelers and goldsmiths, which seemed to still be the case today. It was the only bridge in Florence not bombed and destroyed by the Nazis in World War II. This visit was part of the walking tour today, but some of us came back to this and other bridges.

Couples put locks on the fence surrounding the statue of Benvenuto Cellini on the bridge and throw the key in the Arno River, in hopes of sealing their love.

People who have read Dan Brown's Inferno have heard of the Corridoio Vasariano, Vasari's secret corridor. This elevated corridor crosses the shops of the Ponte Vecchio and connects the Palazzo Vecchio with the Pitti Palace. Vasari designed this secret corridor on behalf of the Medici family so that they could move between their two palaces without being seen by the people. (florencetrips.com)