Regarded as one of the most romantic locations on the planet, the Italian city of Venice draws in millions of visitors each and every year. The city is especially popular as a honeymoon destination, but when we delve back into history, some aspects of life in Venice start to seem a whole lot less romantic.
Located in the parish of San Cassiano in the sestiere of San Polo, this bridge seems relatively simple and unassuming at first glance, lacking any real distinguishing features or ornate carvings. However, it has a very fascinating story attached to it. Ponte delle Tette on rio di san Canciano. Venice is known in the modern era for its romantic aura, but in the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods, it was more famous for its prostitutes.
Ponte delle Tette, Venice. Once this decree was put into place, prostitutes were only allowed to work in certain areas and at certain times. They also had to wear a yellow scarf to distinguish themselves from other women, and could be punished quite severely for breaking any of the rules or curfews in place.
It was commonly known at the time that not all of the prostitutes were women, and not all of the men heading to Venice were searching for female company. The idea was that any homosexuals potentially passing through the area might actually be dissuaded out of their own sexuality by the presence of so many alluring and exposed women.
It was good news for the female prostitutes, as it boosted their business. In reality, knowing what we know about sexuality in these modern times, the scheme seems foolishly ridiculous, but it carried on for quite a while. It was only in the 18th century, when prostitutes were once again allowed to work elsewhere around the city of Venice, that the Bridge of Breasts lost its unique status.
