Venice, with its winding canals and charming streets, has always been a popular destination for lovers from around the world. Beyond its iconic landmarks, the city also boasts lesser-known corners that offer intimate and romantic atmospheres. Among these, the Red Brick Heart in the Sotoportego dei Preti and the Ponte de le Maravegie.
You don't have to wait for Valentine's Day to experience a romantic experience: Venice is the perfect destination for a romantic weekend or a short getaway for two that's sure to make your heart skip a beat. For an unforgettable experience, you could start your stroll from the Sotoportego dei Preti, touching the brick heart to seal your love, and then head towards the Ponte de le Maravegie, crossing the quiet streets and enjoying the view of the canals at sunset.
Along the way, you can stop at one of the traditional taverns to enjoy a glass of wine and typical Venetian dishes, immersed in an atmosphere of times gone by. Venice offers endless opportunities to discover hidden corners and share special moments with your loved one. Let yourself be guided by the city's timeless charm and its enduring stories.
The red brick heart in the Sotoportego dei Preti
In the Castello district, near the Church of San Giovanni in Bragora, lies the evocative Sotoportego dei Preti. Here, nestled between the bricks, emerges a red heart that, according to legend, brings good luck to lovers who touch it.
Tradition tells the story of Melusina, a creature half woman and half mermaid, and her love for Orio, a young fisherman. One day, while fishing, the young man heard a voice calling for help and discovered the mermaid entangled in a fishing net. Melusina had been cursed to transform into a serpent every Saturday. The curse could only be broken by a marriage that would finally make Melusina human. Orio and Melusina married and had three children, but she fell ill and died young.
Orio thought he couldn't cope with the children alone, but every time he returned home, he found it tidy. One day, however, he saw a snake in the house and killed it. From that moment on, his house was always a mess: Melusina returned in snake form to help her family.
In memory of their bond, this brick heart was placed, a symbol of eternal love and protection.
The Maravegie Bridge
Located in the Dorsoduro district, the Ponte de le Maravegie (also known as the Bridge of Wonders) spans the Rio de San Trovaso, connecting Fondamenta Toffetti and Fondamenta Priuli. This brick bridge, with Gothic elements and coats of arms in Istrian stone, exudes an aura of mystery and romance. Its name may derive from a noble Venetian family or from the marvelous views offered from this vantage point.
Legend has it that in front of this bridge lived a family with seven beautiful daughters, or at least six beautiful daughters and only one, Maria, who was a little plainer than the others. The girls had many suitors, all except poor Maria. Among them was a boatman, a strong and handsome boy, but a bit awkward and insecure.
One day, the latter became so ill that he could no longer row and began to suspect that the cause of his illness was the evil eye of Mary, who was secretly in love with him. In a rage, he went to his sisters' house, determined to seek justice, but found Mary praying for him before a crucifix. She had the courage to declare her love to the young man, who realized he was in love with the girl, even though she wasn't very beautiful. The two married, and yesterday she blossomed and became beautiful, and they lived together for many years.
Love in Venice
Venice is one of those cities that can make anyone fall in love. Every stone, every bridge, and every street tells stories of love lived, secrets whispered in the moonlight, and promises made while watching the magic of a sunset reflected in the lagoon. It's a place where time seems to stand still and emotions take center stage, a perfect stage for those who wish to experience love in all its nuances.
From the gondolas silently gliding along the canals to the hidden cafés where you can toast with a glass of prosecco, Venice offers an experience that celebrates intimacy and connection. Here, every corner can transform into a romantic setting, whether it's a hand-in-hand stroll along the Riva degli Schiavoni or a stolen kiss under one of its historic bridges.
Love in Venice doesn't need grand gestures: just let yourself be carried away by the city's atmosphere, where every detail seems to whisper sweet words: Venice knows how to make every moment special.
For those seeking the perfect setting for a romantic adventure, Venice never disappoints. It's the place where dreams of love come true, where every breath is imbued with beauty, and amidst the scent of the lagoon and the sound of bells, love finds its eternal refuge. So why not book an apartment online in advance?
