Every detail of the gondola has its own symbolism. The iron prow-head of the gondola; called 'Il Ferro di Prua' (in venetian fero da prova or dolfin; fer de proue); is needed to balance the weight of the gondolier at the stern . Under the main blade there is a kind of comb with six teeth or prongs pointing forward standing for the six districts or 'sestieri' of Venice. A kind of tooth juts out backwards toward the centre of the gondola symbolises the island of Giudecca. The curved top signifies the Doge's cap. The semi-circular break between the curved top and the six teeth is said to represent the Rialto Bridge.Venice (Venise; Venedig ). Italy. 2020.