The Bridge of Sighs is an enclosed Baroque arch bridge that connects the Doge's Palace and the New Prison. The Bridge was named by Lord Byron in the 19th century. According to legend prisoners would sigh seeing the beautiful Venice for the last time before being taken to their cells. The windows were covered with large stone grills making it difficult to see anything from inside. By the time the bridge was completed the days of the inquisitions were over. The prison was occupied mostly by small-time criminals.

There is a local legend that lovers will have eternal bliss if they kiss passing under the Bridge of Sighs on a gondola at sunset as the bells of St Mark's Campanile toll.