Ponte Della Maddalena – History on the Serchio

Ponte della Maddalena is located in Borgo a Mozzano in the Serchio Valley, on the left bank of the Serchio River near Borgo a Mozzano. At its center is a bridge whose history is closely connected with the routes through this landscape. It was built around the year 1000 so that travelers and pilgrims could reach Lucca and join the Via Francigena, which led to Rome. For you, this means that a clearly recognizable cultural heritage theme is combined here with a river valley and regional traditions.

A Bridge with a Long History

The Ponte della Maddalena was probably built at the behest of Countess Matilde di Canossa. At the beginning of the 14th century, Castruccio Castracani restored the Ponte della Maddalena. It takes its name from a wayside chapel dating from the 16th century that no longer exists today. The local legend is also firmly part of the character of the structure: the devil is said to have completed the bridge in exchange for the soul of the first creature to cross it. The builders then had a goat cross the bridge in order to circumvent this pact. The structure has the classic profile of a humpback bridge with asymmetrical arches. The central main arch is more than 18 meters high, and the entire bridge is more than 90 meters long. These dimensions not only describe its striking form, but also make it understandable why the Ponte della Maddalena so clearly defines the appearance of the Serchio Valley. A flood severely damaged the bridge in 1836. At the beginning of the 20th century, a new arch was opened on its right side so that the train could pass through. Under Article 10 of Italian Legislative Decree No. 42 of January 22, 2004, the Ponte della Maddalena is considered to be of cultural interest for the protection of Italy’s cultural and landscape heritage. Those interested in historic transport routes, medieval architectural history, and regional narratives will therefore find several distinct themes here rather than just a single photo opportunity.

Serchio, Activities, and Regional Traditions

A packrafting tour is offered on the Serchio River; it is suitable for families and beginners and ends at the Ponte del Diavolo. This activity complements the historical perspective with an experience on the water. The Halloween Celebration takes place in the municipality of Borgo a Mozzano at the end of October; Halloween night on October 31 is specified as the main event. Regional cuisine is also part of the identity of the surrounding area. Biroldo is a traditional sausage product from the Garfagnana, made exclusively from the pig’s head. Farina di Neccio DOP is a product of the regional tradition made from chestnuts. The Via Matildica del Volto Santo leaves Borgo a Mozzano; in this context, the characteristic Ponte della Maddalena is mentioned. For further destinations that you can discover via this page, [Valdottavo](Valdottavo), [San Donato](San Donato), [Diecimo](Diecimo) and [Gioviano](Gioviano) are available.

For the overarching travel overview: Borgo A Mozzano.