Maria Cristina Bridge, Historic suspension bridge in Solopapa, Italy
Maria Cristina Bridge crosses the Calore River with reinforced concrete support and features four marble lions positioned at its base. Two semicircular platforms remain from the earlier design, creating distinctive architectural details along the span.
The original suspension bridge design came from architect Luigi Giura and opened in 1835 for a royal ceremony. It was destroyed during World War II and reconstructed in 1947 with the reinforced concrete structure seen today.
A commemorative plaque within the right pillar marks the bridge's inauguration, while another plaque honors philosopher Stefano Cusani along the road to Solopaca.
The bridge is accessible year-round and provides a direct crossing of the Calore River between both banks. Pedestrians and vehicles use it regularly, and the midpoint offers a broad view down into the valley below.
The iron chains of the original structure were manufactured in Calabria, making it the second suspension bridge with chain systems built in the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. This source demonstrates the engineering connections between different regions of that realm.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
