Ponte Vittorio Emanuele I, Turin
Ponte Vittorio Emanuele I is the oldest existing bridge in Turin. In addition, it can also be called the most beautiful one, and most important. A crossing over the Po river in this place was of great importance for the city at all times. In the 15-19 centuries, it was one of the main gateways into the city.
History of the bridge
Back in the era of antiquity, there was a wooden bridge that constantly needed to be repaired and renovated. In 1404, commissioned by Pope Martin V, a stone construction was built instead. However, within some time it became dilapidated, and on the 3rd of November, 1706, was completely destroyed by a flood. At the time, Turin was occupied by Napoleon who ordered to build a new bridge.
In 1808, the project of the French engineer Claude-Yves La Ramée Pertinchamp was chosen. In 1810, the remains of the old bridge were demolished and the first stone of the new structure was laid. The work was superintended by the Frenchman Charles Mallet and the Turin engineer Pellegrini. The building was completed in 1813. After the liberation of the city from Napoleon, the bridge was to be demolished, but King Vittorio Emanuele I prevented this. As a result, it was named after the ruler. In 1876, tram lines were laid and sidewalks were refurbished. Since that time the bridge has not undergone much change.
Bridge's architecture
A magnificent 5-arches stone structure has withstood numerous floods. The total length of the bridge is 150 meters, and the width is almost 13 metres. During the laying of the foundation, 88 commemorative coins and medals from Napoleon's military campaigns and a silver ingot were embedded in the central column. This monumental bridge has charm and uniqueness.
In 2002, it was included in the programme of urban lighting on the occasion of the Winter Olympics. So now, in the dark time of the day, artfully chosen lighting fascinates the citizens and tourists.
How to get there
The bridge stretches across the Po river, connecting the historical and administrative centres of Turin with the Borgo Po area. On the opposite sides of it, there are the squares of Vittorio Veneto and Gran Madre di Dio. It won't be difficult to find the bridge. At the Vittorio Veneto stop, you can take the trams № 7, 13, 15. At the final stop one can take numerous buses, among them № 30, 33, 55, 61, 70, N10, S05, W60.
