Pavia, Lombardy

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Bridging the Way

In a country steeped in history the small city of Pavia has a past which stretches back through the ages to ancient times. The seat of Italian kings, the site of Italian wars and struggles, Pavia has been there through it all. The handsome covered bridge across the river Ticino in Pavia is still relatively speaking, very new. But out of respect for the bridge which stood on this site previously, it is a replica of what has gone before.

Ponte Coperto

The Ponte Coperto or covered bridge, was built in 1951. But the bridge which it replaces and replicates, is the Ponte Vecchio or Old Bridge, which has spanned across the river linking the Borgo Ticino with the historic centre of the town since the fourteenth century. Surviving the ravages of floods and the trials of age it stood strong. But it was no match for the bombs of World War II.
The rich medieval past of Pavia and its role in Italian history,  has meant that even though many buildings of great historic significance may have been lost, sheer numbers ensure that many still stand today. The dome of Pavia’s cathedral is one of the largest in Italy. Pavia’s palace complex is imposing. Its castle and clock tower are monuments of elegant brickwork. Its museum, universities and churches are substantial and formidable.

Brickwork Arches

The Ponte Coperto with its open arches and graceful roof is, on the other hand, elegant and light. The sky reflects its many moods through the bridge and onto the slow-flowing river below. Pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles mingle on the bridge with none holding sway over the other. The slow pace of modern day Pavia is echoed in its charming bridge which has become a symbol of all that Pavia has gone through over the centuries.

The Covered Walkway

Camping Ticino
A great base for day-trips to Milan
On the main train line
Pleasant camping, reasonable facilities