Luxottica Group is funding the costs of the entire restoration project and the future maintenance work.

Accademia Bridge was built in 1932 and is the only wooden bridge crossing the Grand Canal. It has a 48m arch and is one of the most recognised symbols of the city. Some eight million people a year cross over it, including the many visitors to the Accademia Gallery.

"Luxottica is proud to participate in the realisation of this important project, which will return to the Venetians and all tourists a city landmark in its original beauty," said Leonardo Del Vecchio, Luxottica's chairman. "Today we are a global company, but our roots are in the Veneto Region where it all started. This donation is a gesture of affection for Venice and for our homeland.”