Ponte del Diavolo

Ponte del Diavolo (Devil’s Bridge). The much beloved Countess Matilda of Tuscany had this bridge constructed in the 11th century. It crosses the River Serchio and was a vital crossing for pilgrims on the Via Francigena heading to Rome. When the water level is just right the reflection of the arches form perfect circles. A most beautiful and unusual bridge it has its share of legends, and gets its name from one of them. According to legend, the person - St Julian (?) who was to construct the bridge had difficulty completing the project and so asked the Devil for help. Satan, was more than happy to help, but on the condition that he take possession of the first soul to cross the bridge. When the bridge was completed, St. Julian outsmarted the devil by luring a pig or dog with bread to be the first to cross the bridge. In 1889, the bridge was altered to accomodate a train line to pass through the bridge…it was well done and maintained the arch symmetry of the bridge. Ponte del Diavolo was one of the sights on our school trip and we got there on the Lucca to Aulla train for which the bridge was altered.