Point of interest
Visconti Bridge
The fortress bridge on which the Festa del Nodo d’Amore is celebrated
The Ponte Visconteo is the bridge-fortress built by Gian Galeazzo Visconti, Duke of Milan in 1393. The reason for the construction of this extraordinary fortified dam was the Visconti family’s desire to guarantee the impenetrability of the eastern borders and ensure connections with the Veronese territories. The design of the colossal work was entrusted to two of the most talented engineers of the time: the Florentine Domenico dei Benintendi and the Veronese Melchiorre Gambaretti.
About 650 metres long and 25 metres wide, it stands 9 metres above the water level of the Mincio. After completion of the work in 1395, the bridge was later connected to the Scaliger Castle above, creating a fortified complex known as the Serraglio, which extends for a total length of about 17 kilometres. Every year in June, the Festa del Nodo d’Amore is celebrated on this bridge, inspired by a legend of ladies and knights.
Helpful information
Ponte Visconteo, Via Ponte Visconteo, Valeggio sul Mincio, VR, Italia