The Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio ("Old Bridge") is Florence's oldest, most famous bridge.  It was built in the 1300s and  originally housed butchers and other trades who used the bridge to throw waste over the sides.  Now the vendors on the bridge are mostly jewelers and tourist souvenir shops.  

Approaching the river... 

Looking one way down the Arno River...

... and then the other.  Ta da!  The Ponte Vecchio! 

The walkway along the river, heading to the bridge. 

On the bridge itself.  Tourist heaven (or not, depending on what type of traveler you are.) 

On the bridge - this little shopper was happy!

View from the bridge