Spectacular works of art adorn the balustrades and columns of this iconic bridge, which lies beside the ruins of its predecessor.
The Vittorio Emanuele II Bridge serves a historic role in bringing together the Vatican City and the city center of Rome. It is named for the first king of a united Italy since the 6th century, who is considered the Father of the Fatherland. Admire the three arches of this impressive bridge at night, when it bathes in warm light.
Travel between the Vatican City and the Rome city center via this elegant conduit, spanning around 354 feet (108 meters). You can go by car along the three-lane road or gently stroll along the one of the two sidewalks.
Walk to the center of the structure and take time to admire views of the historic surroundings and the water. Just below, you’ll see the ruins of the Pons Neronianus bridge, whose origins are unknown. Look north for the Castel Sant’Angelo and the adjacent Ponte Principe Amedeo Savoia Aosta. Vistas from the bridge are best at sunrise and sunset in this iconic city.
At the southern end of the bridge, admire the twin columns that hoist winged sculptures. Skirting the sides is a stylish white balustrade crowned by fascinating statues of crowds of men and women.
Although the bridge was designed in 1886 by architect Ennio de Rossi, it wasn’t opened until 1911, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the nation’s unification. Learn how a temporary bridge was put in place beside it during the protracted construction period.
The Vittorio Emanuele II Bridge stretches across the River Tiber, on the western side of central Rome. Ride a bus west for around 20 minutes from the Rome Termini station and get off at the stop right by the bridge’s southern entrance.
Explore the surrounding area for such gems as the Ponte Sant’Angelo, the Chiesa di Santo Spirito in Sassia and the Chiesa di Santa Maria in Traspontina.
