Italy 1904 Picture Postcard On Bridge of Sighs From Venice To Paris

1904 Italy picture postcard featuring the Bridge of Sighs in Venice. Sent from Venice (Venezia) to Paris, affixed with a postally used 1901 stamp (Sg: IT 65), featuring a portrait of King Victor Emmanuel III, and of denomination 10 cents. The stamp is postmarked with a square "VENEZIA", dated 17th May 1904. The postcard was printed by Ferd Gobbato. It carries the serial number, 664. The postcard was addressed to one Madame Decouart, who lived at 35 rue Lauriston, Paris,

The Bridge of Sighs, or "Ponte dei Sospiri" in Italian, is a historic bridge in Venice, Italy, that connects the Doge's Palace to the New Prison (Prigioni Nuove) across the Rio di Palazzo. Built in 1600 and designed by Antonio Contino, the bridge is an enclosed, white limestone structure with small, barred windows. The name "Bridge of Sighs" was coined by Lord Byron in the 19th century, inspired by the idea that prisoners would sigh as they caught their last glimpse of Venice before their incarceration. Despite its somber origins, the Bridge of Sighs is now a popular tourist attraction, renowned for its picturesque beauty and the romantic legend that couples who kiss under the bridge will be granted eternal love.

King Victor Emmanuel III was the King of Italy from 1900 to 1946, a period marked by significant political upheaval. He ascended to the throne following the assassination of his father, King Umberto I. Victor Emmanuel III played a pivotal role during both World Wars and the rise of Fascism in Italy. Initially supportive of Mussolini, he later distanced himself as the regime's popularity waned. In 1946, facing mounting pressure and the collapse of the monarchy's credibility, he abdicated in favor of his son, Umberto II, leading to a referendum that resulted in the establishment of the Italian Republic. His reign remains controversial due to his role in enabling Fascist rule.