Troubled bridge over waters

Paris, France
September 8, 2007

Far from uniting Venetians, a new bridge across the Grand Canal linking between the train station and the bus station at Piazzale Roma is generating discord. For a city that treasures its heritage and has become a victim of its own success in drawing visitors to its historic sights, the brand-new red steel footbridge is a new departure into modernity, attracting considerable criticism.

The December launch date is years behind schedule, its construction costs (almost $14 million) are beyond budget, and despite its avant-garde appearance, it's not suitable for wheelchair users.

The city of Venice has shown itself willing to make a break with the past by commissioning Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, known for his bold modern approach (although he has given a nod to tradition by using local marble for part of the construction). The bridge was needed to facilitate the movement of the millions of visitors and residents alike around the city, and it is hoped that after the furore has died down, it will take after other monuments previously considered eyesores such as the Eiffel Tower or the glass pyramid of the Louvre, and become a new symbol of the city.

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Best regards,

Maria Savage
International Living's European Consultant

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