Ponte Vittorio Emanuele I, Stone bridge over Po River in Turin, Italy
Ponte Vittorio Emanuele I is a stone bridge spanning the Po River with five granite arches that join central Turin to the Borgo Po district. It stretches about 150 meters and was designed to carry both pedestrians and vehicles, with tram lines now running across it.
A French engineer designed the bridge in 1808 and construction was completed in 1813 during Napoleon's occupation of Turin. Its completion coincided with a period of significant political change in the city.
The bridge connects Turin's administrative heart with the Gran Madre di Dio church, serving as a gathering point where locals cross daily between the two districts. Its role links the city's center to the riverbank community on the other side.
The bridge is open to pedestrians and also used by trams, so visitors should watch for vehicles and tracks while crossing. The original stone structure is best navigated in daylight and by staying on the designated path.
During construction, workers placed 88 commemorative coins from Napoleon's military campaigns and a silver ingot inside the foundation of the central column. These hidden treasures remain sealed within the structure.
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