The advent of bridges coincided with the rise of modern civilization in ancient Mesopotamia. A bridge is a structure that provides passage over valleys, rough terrain, rivers and bodies of water and is crucial in connecting lands, regions, workers, markets and trade between cities and peoples.

Bridges are symbolic of communication and union and for this reason are seen in a religious sense as a connection between God and Man as well as for travel and crossing.

In addition to my many other fascinations about anything Italian, I love old bridges (including Cleveland’s unique bridges coming in next month’s issue). Here are some amazing bridges from my trips to Italy.

• Ponte Santa Trinità... Ponte Santa Trinità...
• Ponte Alla Carraia... Ponte Alla Carraia...
• Walking with friends... Walking with friends...
• Via Marino Cappelli... Via Marino Cappelli...
• Ponte Vecchio (Florence)... Ponte Vecchio (Florence)...
• Ponte dei Sospiri... Ponte dei Sospiri...
• Every smaller bridge... Every smaller bridge...
• Rialto Bridge (Venice),... Rialto Bridge (Venice),...
• The beautiful Ponte... The beautiful Ponte...
• Ponte Principe Amedeo... Ponte Principe Amedeo...
• Isola di Tiberina,... Isola di Tiberina,...
•