Ponte delle Tette (Bridge of the Tits), Venice

Ponte delle Tette, a small bridge in the heart of Venice's former Red Light district of San Cassiano, holds a peculiar history. It earned its intriguing name, "Bridge of the Tits", due to its association with a unique practice from the past. During that time, prostitutes would gather on the bridge and openly display their bare chests, aiming to attract potential clients and convert suspected homosexuals. This particular procedure was encouraged by Venetian authorities as a means to address what they perceived as a new social issue.

Going the extra mile in its role of diverting men from "sin against nature", the Republic of Venice allowed prostitutes to use lanterns to illuminate their breasts at night, while also occasionally paying them to stand in a line across the bridge with breasts exposed (such display had the extra motivation of excluding transvestite prostitutes).

The Red Light district in Venice was officially sanctioned in the early 16th century, providing a regulated space for such activities. Casanova was said to be a frequent visitor, actively seeking his next victim.

Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Didier Descouens.

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Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: Ponte delle Tette (Bridge of the Tits)
Sight Location: Venice, Italy (See walking tours in Venice)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Casanova's Venice

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