During their Italian tours everyone wishes to see as many cities and places of interest as possible. Here’s one of the most famous places in Rome that especially attract romantics–the Ponte Milvio, one of the oldest, most significant bridges over the Tiber River.
The Ponte Milvio was built from wood by consul Gaius Claudius Nero in 206 BC and was rebuilt of stone by Marcus Aemilius Scaurus in 115 BC. The bridge is dedicated to the victory of Rome over Carthage. It has been the symbol of military might since its earliest construction.
The bridge was repaired several times, especially after it was partially destroyed by Garibaldi during the Italian unification. Now instead of Roman legions you can see an army of young lovers there.
After the addition of statues and a tower by several Popes, the modern bridge looks much different and beautiful. However, the Ponte Milvio became famous especially in 2006 due to a popular book and movie by Federico Moccia. In his book “Ho Voglia Di Te” (I Want You), Moccia described a ritual according to which lovers hang a padlock with their names on the bridge’s lamppost and throw the key over their heads into the water as a symbol of their eternal love.
After the book and movie hundreds of padlocks were hung, and as a result, the lamppost broke in 2007 from the weight. Consequently, the ritual was stopped. A website (lucchettipontemilvio.com) was created to allow users to post a virtual padlock as an alternative.
Fortunately, in July 2007 several steel pillars with chains were put on the bridge, again allowing lovers to fasten their padlocks.
Due to the lovers the area around the Ponte Milvio has become Rome’s famous night spot. It is full of bars, restaurants, jewelery stalls, musicians and even padlock sellers. Between 1931-1933 a church was constructed behind the tower of the bridge — Gran Madre di Dio. It was built by Cesare Bazzani and Clemente Busiri Vici.
Even a special clothing industry has been created. It offers t-shirts and pants that are designed in the style of “locks of love.”
So once you’re in Rome, take your time to visit the Ponte Milvio bridge and have your symbolic “lock of love” fastened there.
Photo © kvanhorn
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