The works, divided into three phases, will aim to restore the flooring, pillars and facade.
The Municipality of Florence has announced that restoration work will begin next autumn on one of its main tourist attractions, the Old Bridge. Located above the River Arnoby connecting the Old Town to the neighborhood of Oltrarnothe bridge allows only pedestrians to cross and is home to several jewelery shops.
The municipality highlighted that the construction does not present any type of structural problem or risk of collapse. With the aim of restoring the aesthetic characteristics and ensuring the conservation of the structure, the works will be punctual and will allow the bridge to remain open to pedestrian traffic. The last intervention in Old Bridge It was built after the historic flood that hit the city in 1966.
The restoration is expected to last two years and will be divided into three phases. In the first phase, which will begin in autumn 2024, the pavement will be waterproofed and any broken stones will be replaced. The second, scheduled for the summer of 2025, will consist of the renovation of the pillars that support the bridge over the river. Finally, the restoration of the facades should take place in the summer of 2026, which will involve cleaning, removing the damaged parts and protecting the most delicate ones.
The estimated cost of the works is two million euros. Half of the sum will be paid by the Municipality of Florence, while the other half will be donated by the Antinori family, owners of the Tuscan winery of the same name voted the best in the world.
On the Ponte Vecchio
The first version of the bridge is believed to have been built of wood during the Roman Empire. The structure was rebuilt in stone in 1345 and has resisted ever since, even surviving the bombings of the Second World War: legend has it that Hitler himself ordered its construction. Old Bridge he was spared.
Between the 15th and 16th centuries the bridge was occupied mainly by butchers. The type of trade changed when the court moved to the neighbor Palazzo Pitti: the rent has increased and the shops have been replaced by jewelers and goldsmiths, which are still the majority. In 1565 a secret passage was built above the Old Bridge call of Vasari Corridorwhich allowed the transit of nobles Palazzo Pittiwhere they lived, Palazzo Vecchiowhere the government headquarters and, currently, the town hall were located Florence.
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
