Drought in Rome reveals ancient Roman bridge in Tiber River

A severe drought in Rome has revealed the remnants of a historic Roman bridge in the Tiber River, submerged for nearly 18 centuries. The low water levels, a consequence of weeks without rain, have exposed the ancient structure, prompting archaeologists to study its remains.

Archaeologists believe the bridge is the Pons Neronianus, often called "Nero's bridge." Although named after Emperor Nero, who reigned from 54 AD, historical evidence suggests it was constructed in 39 AD by his uncle, Emperor Caligula. The bridge served as a vital central connection across the Tiber from its construction until the early 3rd century AD, linking the Circus of Caligula (near modern-day Vatican City) to the river's right bank.

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Nero is the most famous historical figure who has a connection with this area.

Antonella Bonini, an archaeologist with Rome's cultural heritage department, explained that the bridge was later associated with Nero due to his fame. Nero is the most famous historical figure linked to the area, particularly the Circus of Nero where Saint Peter is said to have been martyred. The bridge eventually fell into disrepair, with foot traffic rerouted to the precursor of the present-day Ponte Sant'Angelo.

Giovanni Giganti, coordinator of the civil protection's water management center in Rome, described the city's "severe water crisis." The Tiber's flow rate has dropped below 80 cubic meters per second, roughly half its historical average for July. This situation is attributed to long dry spells following a wetter winter, exacerbating water scarcity issues. The bridge's reappearance serves as a stark visual reminder of the environmental challenges Rome is currently facing.

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We are confronted with a serious water crisis. And that crisis is partly due to the fact that although we had quite a lot of rain this winter, the dry periods afterwards were quite long.