Ponte Aquila

First recorded in 1233, Bressanone's Eagle Bridge was repeatedly rebuilt after floods destroyed its wooden crossings; an iron structure replaced the timber in 1883.

Why it matters

The Ponte Aquila connects the historic centre with Stufles, one of Bressanone's oldest quarters. Its history reflects the city's relationship with the Isarco: for centuries, floods repeatedly swept away wooden bridges before the more durable iron crossing was built in the nineteenth century.

What to notice

The iron bridge dates to 1883 and spans the Isarco between the arcaded centre and Stufles. From the crossing, the riverside houses and the White Tower form part of Bressanone's historic skyline.

Context and history

A wooden bridge across the Isarco is recorded in 1233. Floods repeatedly destroyed it, and it was rebuilt in timber until the decisive reconstruction in iron in 1883. The great flood of 1882 had prompted regulation of the city's two rivers. The bridge remains a historic link between the episcopal town and Stufles.