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The Rialto takes its name from rivo alto (high bank) and was one of the first areas of Venice to be inhabited. A banking and then market district, it remains one of the city busiest and most bustling areas. Locals and visitors alike jostle among the colourful stalls of the Erbenia (fruit and vegetable market) and Pescheria (fish market).
Stone bridges were built in Venice as early as the 12th century, but it was not until 1588, after the collapse, decay or sabotage of earlier wooden structures, that a solid stone bridge was designed for the Rialto. Completed in 1591, the new bridge remained the only means of crossing the Grand Canal until 1854, when the Accademia bridge was built.
Few visitors leaves Venice without crossing the famous bridge. It is a wonderful place to watch and photograph the constsnt activity of boats on the Grand Canal below.