The Rialto Bridge is formed by two inclined ramps covered by a portico with shops on either side. There are three walkways that cross the bridge - two along the outer balustrades and a wider one in the center.
Because galley ships passed under the bridge in days gone by, the bridge's arch is higher than many - reaching about 7.5 meters (24 feet). About 12,000 wooden pilings support this bridge with a single span of 48 meters (158 feet).