Castelvecchio Bridge

The Castelvecchio Bridge, also known as the Scaliger Bridge, is one of the most emblematic monuments of Verona, a masterpiece of medieval military engineering. Built between 1354 and 1356 by the will of Cangrande II della Scala, the bridge had the strategic purpose of ensuring a safe escape route from the castle to the countryside and Germany in case of an attack on the city. This function reflected Cangrande II’s distrust of his own safety within the city walls, a concern justified by the tumultuous historical period. The bridge stands out for its bold and imposing structure: over 120 meters long and about 6 meters wide, it consists of three arches of different widths. The main arch, with a span of about 48.69 meters, was one of the largest in Europe at the time and testifies to the engineering mastery of the era. This size was not only aesthetic, but also functional, as it allowed boats to pass under the bridge, essential for trade and river transport. Made mainly of bricks, typical of Veronese medieval monuments, the bridge features massive stone pillars at the base, designed to withstand the strong currents of the Adige River. The pentagonal pillars are rostrated, tapered upstream to facilitate water flow and reduce pressure on the bridge. The structure is enriched with swallowtail battlements, walkways, and loopholes, reflecting the defensive function of the bridge. The bridge has undergone several restorations over the centuries. In the 19th century, under Austrian rule, it was restored and two commemorative plaques recall the 1824 intervention by Emperor Francis I of Austria. However, one of the most tragic events in the bridge’s history occurred on April 24, 1945, when retreating German troops blew it up. Its faithful reconstruction was completed in 1951 using materials recovered from the river, returning to the city one of its most precious symbols. The Castelvecchio Bridge has been described as “a triumphal arch over a waterway” thanks to its shape and grandeur. Its robustness and ingenious design have allowed the bridge to survive weather and river floods for over five centuries, representing an excellent example of medieval military architecture. The structure not only served as an escape route, but also as a demonstration of power and control over the territory by the Scaligeri. Today, the bridge is not only a point of historical and architectural interest, but also a cultural attraction. It has been immortalized by numerous artists and writers, and continues to inspire visitors and residents with its majestic presence. Crossing the Castelvecchio Bridge is a journey through time, an experience that allows one to relive the history of Verona and appreciate the magnificence of medieval engineering. The bridge connects the castle to the left bank of the Adige River, forming a unique complex with Castelvecchio, which now houses an important art museum. The bridge’s location offers spectacular views of the river and the city, making it a perfect place for walks and reflections on Verona’s millennia-old history.