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Venice Reopens Historic Bridge to San Michele Cemetery for All Souls' Day

Venice brings back a 70-year-old tradition. The longest pedestrian bridge in the city reopens for All Souls' Day, offering a unique way to connect with Venice's rich history and culture.

Inside a graveyard there are many graves and a lot of trees around them and in the front there is...
Inside a graveyard there are many graves and a lot of trees around them and in the front there is some sculpture.

Venice Reopens Historic Bridge to San Michele Cemetery for All Souls' Day

Venice has reopened its historic pedestrian bridge to San Michele island, the city's main cemetery, for All Souls' Day. The bridge, the longest of its kind in Venice, initially allows only residents and will open to tourists on Monday.

The bridge, originally constructed from Venetian boats and walking planks, has been revived after a 70-year absence. Mayor Luigi Brugnaro proposed its revival to reconnect history with living people and provide a unique water route. This year's opening was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The bridge traverses a shallow area of the lagoon from Fondamente Nove, leading to San Michele island, the final resting place of notable figures like Ezra Pound and Igor Stravinsky, as well as many Venetians. The cemetery was established in 1807 and takes its name from the island's 15th-century church. It remains the principal burial ground for Venice's historic center.

A temporary bridge was constructed to allow Venetians to walk to San Michele island for All Souls' Day. The permanent bridge will now open to tourists on Monday, providing a unique way to connect with Venice's rich history and culture.

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