Ponte Salario, Roman bridge on Via Salaria, Rome, Italy
Ponte Salario is a stone arch bridge spanning the Aniene River in Rome, marked by a central medieval tower and extensive fortifications running along its length. The structure features multiple arches rising above the water, giving the crossing a solid, imposing appearance.
The bridge was built in the 4th century BC and later reconstructed in 565 by General Narses after its destruction during conflicts between Byzantine and Ostrogothic forces. This reconstruction marked a pivotal moment in restoring Roman infrastructure during late antiquity.
The bridge appears in numerous paintings from the 1700s, particularly in works by French artists documenting the Roman landscape. Its image continues to attract painters and photographers today who capture the interplay between ancient architecture and river scenery.
The crossing allows pedestrians and vehicles to traverse the river on Via Salaria with wide walkways along the structure. It was expanded in 1930 to handle more traffic, and a parallel companion structure was added after World War II to provide additional capacity.
At the base of the bridge tower sits the Tomb of Marius, a Roman mausoleum from the time of the First Civil War. This ancient monument remains visible to visitors, offering a direct connection to the political upheavals of late republican Rome.
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