Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The bridge of Spina-Cavalu, also known as Ponti di Spin-à Cavaddu, is a medieval building located in Alta Rocca, between Propriano and Sartène, Corsica. It is 64 to 65 metres long and 2.60 metres wide, and is distinguished by its arch in the middle of the hanger rising to 7.7 metres above the Rizzanese. Its batteries, reinforced by four grey granite beaks, give it remarkable strength. Its name evokes the shape of its arch, compared to the back of a horse, making it one of the most emblematic bridges on the island.

Built in the 13th century, this structure is often attributed to the Genoese, but the sources specify that it was actually built by the Pisans. The alleged architect, Masciu Maternato, a native of Mainland Italy and resident in Sorbollano, also worked on the Carbini campanile. An isolated mention evokes a possible construction in the sixteenth century, although the majority sources retain the thirteenth and fifteenth centuries. The bridge was restored in the 18th and 19th centuries, and was classified as a Historic Monument on October 22, 1976.

In 1993, the bridge resisted a devastating flood of the Rizzanese and Fiumicicoli, although it was almost carried away. A restoration took place in 1995 to preserve this work, symbol of medieval Corsican engineering. Today, there remains a major testimony of the island's Pisana and Genoese history, while being a strategic crossing point between the villages of Alta Rocca.

To reach it, from Propriano, you must take the N196 national road towards Sartène, then turn on the D268 towards Saint Lucia-de-Tallano. The bridge is located three kilometres from the cansa, in a preserved natural setting. Its maintenance and protection now belong to the municipality of Arbellara, owner of the monument.

External links