Ponte Vecchio, Bassano, Wooden bridge in Bassano del Grappa, Italy
Ponte Vecchio is a covered wooden bridge crossing the Brenta River in Bassano del Grappa, extending 58 meters in length. The structure rests on solid stone pillars, while a curved timber roof shelters the entire passage and side openings allow views of the water below.
Andrea Palladio designed this crossing in 1569 to replace earlier structures repeatedly destroyed by floods. After World War II, Alpine soldiers led the reconstruction effort, and since then the crossing has also been known as Ponte degli Alpini in their honor.
The name Ponte Vecchio, meaning old bridge, reflects the centuries-old tradition of rebuilding this crossing after floods and damage. Locals and visitors walk through the covered gallery to watch the river flow below, while the historic Nardini grappa distillery continues production at one end.
The crossing connects both riverbanks and can be walked in a few minutes, with views of the river visible along the way. Traditional distilleries stand at the eastern entrance, easily reached after walking through the passage.
In 2021, steel reinforcements were inserted beneath the timber cladding to stabilize the foundations without altering the outer appearance. This modern intervention remains invisible to passersby, as all load-bearing metal elements are fully concealed.
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