Rams above the river

In their haste to get where they are going or eagerness to take in the gorgeous view, those crossing Ponte Santa Trinita, the bridge that was faithfully reconstructed after being destroyed in World War II, may miss the discreet decoration on the central arch, featuring the heads of two rams, but its significance would have been have obvious in the sixteenth century, when the bridge was built. The ram symbolizes the spirit of war and is associated with fearlessness, protection and power. One ram is placed in full view of the river, facing the mountains and protecting Florence from its floods. The other points towards Ponte alla Carraia, defending the city from possible foreign invaders and instilling fear in hated enemies that came to the Tuscan capital by sea, especially those coming from Pisa.