The Swing Bridge of San Francesco di Paola is one of the symbols of Taranto: it connects the island of the Old Village to the new city, crossing the navigable canal that connects the Mar Grande to the Mar Piccolo. It is a steel movable bridge, composed of two arms that rotate to allow the passage of ships, especially naval vessels headed to the Arsenal....Read more
The Swing Bridge of San Francesco di Paola is one of the symbols of Taranto: it connects the island of the Old Village to the new city, crossing the navigable canal that connects the Mar Grande to the Mar Piccolo. It is a steel movable bridge, composed of two arms that rotate to allow the passage of ships, especially naval vessels headed to the Arsenal. Its function is both urban, as it allows the passage of vehicles and pedestrians, and port and strategic, as it ensures navigation in the canal. Inaugurated in 1887 and renovated multiple times, the current bridge dates back to the interventions of the twentieth century and retains a strong historical value for the city, linked to the military, industrial, and maritime development of Taranto. Its opening, now less frequent but always spectacular, is a highly anticipated and photographed moment: the two halves of the bridge separate and rotate, leaving the passage free for the boats. From a tourist point of view, it is a must-see stop for those visiting Taranto. It offers suggestive views of the Aragonese Castle, the navigable canal, and the waterfront, and is ideal for walks and photographs, especially at sunset. In the surroundings, you can find the historic center, the Cathedral of San Cataldo, the National Archaeological Museum MArTA, and several panoramic points that tell the maritime and cultural identity of the city.
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