Step up, step down, and discover Venice in one of its most unique events! The “Su e Zo per i Ponti” (Up and Down the Bridges in Venetian dialect) is a non-competitive walk through Venice that has been bringing together locals and visitors since 1975. This extraordinary event transforms Venice’s iconic bridges from mere crossing points into stages of an unforgettable urban adventure.
What is Su e Zo per i Ponti?
It’s an annual recreational walk that takes participants through Venice’s lesser-known corners, across countless bridges, through narrow calli (streets), and into beautiful campos (squares). The event typically takes place in spring, usually in March or April, attracting thousands of participants from around the world.
The Routes
Main Route
- Length: Approximately 12.5 kilometers
- Number of bridges: 40-45 (varies by year)
- Duration: 3-4 hours at a leisurely pace
- Difficulty: Moderate (due to bridge climbing)
- Highlights: Passes through all six sestieri (districts) of Venice
Short Route
- Length: Approximately 6 kilometers
- Number of bridges: 20-25
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
- Suitable for: Families with young children, elderly participants
- Accessibility: More manageable but still challenging
Event Features
Cultural Checkpoints
- Various stopping points featuring:
- Local music performances
- Folk dancing exhibitions
- Traditional craft demonstrations
- Food and drink stands
Participation Rewards
- Commemorative medal for all finishers
- Special prizes for larger groups
- Certificate of completion
- Event t-shirt (optional purchase)
Historical Significance
Founded in 1975 by members of local youth organizations, Su e Zo per i Ponti was created to:
- Promote Venice’s cultural heritage
- Encourage sustainable tourism
- Foster community engagement
- Support local traditions
The event has grown from a small local gathering to an international attraction, while maintaining its community-focused spirit.
Practical Information
Registration
- Available online months before the event
- On-site registration possible (if space available)
- Group discounts for schools and organizations
- Special rates for families
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes (essential!)
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Water bottle
- Camera
- Small backpack
- City map (provided with registration)
Starting Points
- Primary start: Saint Mark’s Square
- Secondary starts: Various points depending on the year
- Groups typically start in waves to prevent congestion
Tips for Participants
Before the Event
- Train by walking distances beforehand
- Break in comfortable shoes
- Study the route map
- Check weather forecasts
- Arrive early to avoid crowds
During the Walk
- Pace yourself
- Stay hydrated
- Take photos at designated points
- Follow marked routes
- Respect local residents
Cultural Impact
The event has become more than just a walk; it’s a celebration of Venice’s unique urban landscape and community spirit. It offers:
- Educational value for schools
- Cultural exchange opportunities
- Community building
- Promotion of healthy lifestyle
- Support for local businesses
Environmental Considerations
The organization emphasizes environmental responsibility:
- Zero-waste initiatives
- Reusable materials
- Environmental awareness
- Sustainable tourism practices
Social Aspects
Group Participation
- School groups from across Italy
- Sports clubs and associations
- Family teams
- International visitors
- Local community groups
Entertainment
Throughout the route, participants encounter:
- Traditional music bands
- Folk dance performances
- Street artists
- Local food tastings
- Cultural exhibitions
Safety and Support
Medical Support
- First aid stations along routes
- Mobile medical teams
- Emergency contact numbers
- Rest areas at regular intervals
Route Marking
- Clear signage throughout
- Volunteers at key points
- Digital route tracking
- Emergency exits marked
Post-Event Activities
Celebration
- Closing ceremony
- Prize distribution
- Group photos
- Community gathering
- Local entertainment
Documentation
- Official photos
- Participant certificates
- Media coverage
- Social media sharing
Impact on Venice
The event contributes to:
- Local economy
- Cultural preservation
- Community cohesion
- Sustainable tourism
- Health awareness
Future of the Event
As Venice faces challenges with mass tourism, Su e Zo per i Ponti demonstrates how events can:
- Promote responsible tourism
- Preserve local traditions
- Support community engagement
- Encourage cultural understanding
- Foster environmental awareness
This unique event continues to evolve while maintaining its core mission of celebrating Venice’s architectural heritage and community spirit. Whether you’re a serious walker, a family looking for adventure, or simply someone who loves experiencing local traditions, Su e Zo per i Ponti offers a unique way to discover Venice’s hidden treasures while participating in a beloved community tradition.