Discover the Ponte sulla Sieve, also known as the Ponte Mediceo, a historic 16th-century bridge commissioned by Cosimo I. Marvel at the Medici family’s coat of arms on the central stone pillar, as you walk along the path that connects the village of Pontassieve to San Francesco di Pelago. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the quintessential Tuscan landscape surrounding this iconic bridge, and feel a deep connection to the past as you follow in the footsteps of St. Francis and countless pilgrims on their spiritual journey.
The Ponte sulla Sieve, or Ponte Mediceo, was built in the 16th century to replace a previous bridge destroyed by a flood. Commissioned by Cosimo I, it was designed by Stefano di San Piero a Ponti and his son Tommaso, likely following a plan by Bartolomeo Ammannati. The bridge’s purpose was to connect the Republic of Florence to the territories of Mugello, Casentino, and Arezzo. Pontassieve, originally named Castel Sant’Angelo, was a military stronghold and a strategic location for the Florentines.
The bridge has been restored twice: once in 1788 by order of Grand Duke Peter Leopold of Lorraine and again after damage from World War II. It features two red brick arches resting on a robust central stone pillar, adorned with the Medici family’s coat of arms.
There is no direct connection between the Ponte Mediceo and St. Francis. However, the bridge serves as a vital link for pilgrims walking the Via di Francesco pilgrimage trail, as it connects the village of Pontassieve to San Francesco di Pelago.
Walk the historic Ponte Mediceo on your pilgrimage journey.
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An opportunity for pilgrims, seekers, and adventurers to take an inward journey alongside the spirit of St Francis.
A Toscana, non-religious non-profit to share the discovery and preservation of Franciscan tradition, Nature, and Art.
Disclosure: We may receive affiliate compensation for some of the links on this site if you decide to purchase linked items, helping us to maintain our trails and provide services to our community of pilgrims. Read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.
By entering your email, you get the Quick Start emails, free Pilgrim Essentials Kit, and more resources, and agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.
An opportunity for pilgrims, seekers, and adventurers to take an inward journey alongside the spirit of St Francis.
A Toscana, non-religious non-profit to share the discovery and preservation of Franciscan tradition, Nature, and Art.
Disclosure: We may receive affiliate compensation for some of the links on this site if you decide to purchase linked items, helping us to maintain our trails and provide services to our community of pilgrims. Read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.
