Ponte Sublicio, Rome

Ponte Sublicio is one of the oldest bridges in Rome. The modern bridge connects the Emporio square, which is located in the Ripa area on the border of the Testaccio area with Porta Portese square, in the Trastevere area. The modern bridge is made of stone and is located slightly downstream of the river than the first bridge. This landmark of urban architecture is interesting because of its rich history.

History of the Sublicio Bridge

For many years, the rugged Tiber River was a natural barrier that protected the inhabitants of Rome from the raids of enemies. However, during the reign of the fourth Ancient Roman king Ancus Marcius, in the 7th century BC, it became necessary to communicate with the settlements that lived on the opposite bank of the river. The bridge was built of solid wood. Thanks to it the bridge got its name – Sublicio. In construction, neither iron nor bronze was used. For various reasons, the bridge collapsed, but it was restored again and again.

Works on the building of a new stone bridge were started in 1914, during the First World War. There was not enough money, so the construction lasted for 3 years, the necessary sum was allocated only in 1917, thanks to which in 1918 the bridge was put into operation.

How to get there

The Sublicio Bridge is located in the South-Western part of the city, near the central part of Rome. In order to get there, you should use public transport: tram number 3, or bus number 75 (stop – station "Emporio").