Masonry Bridge

This page is an overview of a typical masonry bridge in Venice.

For a typical bridge, see Bridge.

an example of a masonry bridge

Masonry bridges are the most prevalent bridges and best suit the aged traditional appearance of Venice. These Bridges are generally made of three materials: Istria Stone, brick, and Mortar. . The most renown masonry bridge is the Rialto.

Structure

Cross section of a masonry bridge

3d crossection of a masonry bridge

The structure of a masonry bridge is the most complicated of the three bridge types prevalent in Venice. The base of a masonry bridge is composed of brick. In the first layer the bricks run vertically and are then met by a layer of horizontal brick (see diagram). The foundation of brick layers is followed by a layer of Mortar upon which the Bridge Steps and landings are built. Lastly the Bridge Walls are constructed in order to prevent pedestrians from falling into the Canals.

Archways

From left to right: arco ribassato, tutto tondo, schiena d'asino, and arco policentrico.

The main structure of a masonry bridge, consists of the arch. Depending on the size and history of the arch, it can be made in 4 different styles.

• Volta a schiena d'asino
• Volta ad arco ribassato
• Volta a tutto tondo
• Volta ad arco policentrico

External Links

• Wikipedia article about masonry as a structural material: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masonry