Ponte Vecchio Audio Guide
Explore Ponte Vecchio with Stanza's GPS-triggered offline audio guide.
About the Tour
The Ponte Vecchio is a medieval stone closed-spandrel segmental arch bridge over the Arno River in Florence, Italy. It is notable for its shops built along its edges.
What you will hear
The Street of Gold
Focuses on the bridge's unique commercial character, transitioning from butchers to goldsmiths in 1594. Highlights the iconic wooden shutters (madiella) and workshop interiors.
Traditional Workshop Shutters
The heavy wooden shutters along the bridge are more than just security; they are a centuries-old design for displaying fine Florentine gold.
The Medici's Secret Path
Explores the Vasari Corridor, the elevated secret passageway commissioned by Cosimo I de' Medici to connect the city's power centers.
The Medici Coat of Arms
Embedded in the stone of the upper corridor, this family crest served as a visual stamp of ownership and authority for the bridge's rulers.
The Vasari Corridor
High above the shops, this secret elevated passage allowed the ruling Medici family to traverse the city in total seclusion.
The Southern Gateway
Concludes the tour at the south end of the bridge, featuring the original defensive Torre dei Mannelli and religious landmarks.
The Mannelli Tower
This stubborn stone tower forced the great architect Vasari to build a workaround, creating the bridge's most unusual architectural feature.
Tabernacle of the Madonna
Tucked above a jewelry shop, this small 17th-century shrine provided a moment of prayer and protection for the bridge's many merchants.
Want to hear the rest?
Download the Stanza app to unlock all 14 stops and full GPS-guided navigation.