This famous bridge spans the Arno at its narrowest point. The original version was presumably constructed by the Romans, but records of its existence did not appear until 996. Two previous incarnations of the bridge were swept away in floods before the present structure was built in 1345, with a tower being constructed at the southeast corner to defend it. Consisting of three segmental arches, the bridge had shops lining the central passageway, which was a common feature during the Renaissance.