Ponte San Michele (St. Michael’s Bridge) was built between 1621 and 1623 across the narrow Retrone River, and is Vicenza, Italy's most beloved and photographed bridge. Just beyond the bridge, in the forefront not seen, is an area called “Le Barche” (The Boats) which once served as a small port for Vicenza when seafaring vessels sailed back and forth to Venice with their herbs and spice trade.