Sestiere Dorsoduro
Ponte dei Pugni
Bridge of Fists
Bridge famed for its historic tradition of organized fistfights between rival gangs.
Featured in
Atypical Venice
What makes it special
A fighting bridge
For nearly 400 years, from the 14th to the 18th century, the fierce rivalry between the Castellani and Nicolotti clans erupted on this very bridge, where epic fistfights were held as a form of ritualized competition.
The clash unfolds
These brutal contests drew large crowds. Fights typically began with champions stationed at the bridge’s four corners — still marked by stone footsteps — surrounded by swarms of supporters. Only fists were allowed, and victory went to the team that managed to raise its flag at the top of the bridge.
No fences, no mercy
The bridge had no railings back then, so many fighters were thrown — or simply fell — into the canal’s murky waters below.
The end of a tradition
The fights came to a dramatic halt in 1705 after one particularly violent clash. Things got so out of hand that a priest had to intervene, holding up a crucifix to break up the brawl. The fights were banned soon after.
Your experience here
- Step into the stone footprints.
- Picture the tension in the air, the roar of the crowd, and the chaos about to unfold.
- Fortunately, today the only battle is resisting another gelato.
More on the fistfights
Interestingly, the Republic of Venice was not discouraging the clashes.
In fact, they valued having a population well-armed and trained in fighting — and perhaps even saw the benefit of dividing the inhabitants to prevent them from uniting in a general revolt.
The Castellani
The Castellani lived in the eastern part of the city and were mostly employed at the Arsenale, Venice’s renowned shipyard.
Their work in shipbuilding and related industries placed them at the heart of the city’s industrial core, giving them a more central and influential role in Venetian society.
The Nicolotti
The Nicolotti, on the other hand, were concentrated at the western end and primarily dedicated themselves to fishing.
Despite their vital role in Venice’s economy, the Nicolotti were generally seen as being on the outskirts of the city’s social hierarchy.
Their name comes from the beautiful church of San Nicolo dei Mendicoli.
This is not the only fighting bridge
Explore another bridge with a similar history of fights: Ponte Santa Fosca.
What to see nearby
These top spots are just a short walk from Ponte dei Pugni:
super close
Venice Jazz Club
super close
San Barnaba
tops 5 mins
Campo Santa Margherita
tops 5 mins
Scuola dei Carmini
tops 5 mins
Santa Maria dei Carmini
tops 5 mins
Ca' Rezzonico
tops 5 mins
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