22. Belgioioso Bridge

Explore the Ponte Belgioioso in Peschiera del Garda, a fascinating historic remnant immersed in the waters, witness to ancient defenses and stories of a bygone era.

However, today, only a few traces of the Ponte Belgioioso remain, visible in the waters between the Ponte dei Voltoni and the Bastione Cantarane.

Its destruction dates back to the Venetian domination, when the new pentagonal fortress that still surrounds the historic center of Peschiera del Garda was built.

The bridge was part of the architectural complex of the Scaliger Castle, closely linked from its origins to the rule of the Veronese Scala family. Driven by the Scaligers’ strategic vision, Peschiera underwent profound transformations that led to the creation of an imposing fortified structure of great defensive value.

Designed mainly as an escape route, the Ponte Belgioioso provided a safe passage toward Verona in the event of a siege.

Architecturally, it resembled the Castelvecchio Bridge in Verona, which is still perfectly preserved today. It was defended by two massive towers: the one facing the mainland stood on a small island and was protected by battlemented walls, while the tower connected to the castle was larger and equipped with a drawbridge that could isolate the access in case of attack.

The Belgioioso bridge was built between 1336 and 1339, shortly after the Veneto-Scaliger war, which marked the loss of the Brescia territories by the Scaligers.
Currently, only the submerged foundations are visible, but thanks to studies by the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities and the publication Belgioioso curated by Chiara Chiriotti, it is possible to admire a visual reconstruction near the bridge itself.