Ponte Gobbo (Devil's Bridge) of Bobbio

The Gobbo bridge, also known as the Old Bridge or Devil's Bridge, is an ancient bridge characterized by an irregular profile that crosses the Trebbia river. With a length of 273 meters, this bridge was called the Gobbo bridge due to its eleven unequal arches, placed at different heights. Although the exact date of construction is not known, it is assumed that the bridge dates back to Roman times, probably built after the Roman conquest of the Ligurian-Celtic settlement that stood in that area.

An ancient legend is linked to the construction of the bridge: it is said that the devil contacted San Colombano, offering to build the bridge in a single night, in exchange for the first mortal soul to cross it. The saint accepted the offer. During the night, the devil called some little devils who helped him build the bridge, supporting the vaults with their own strength. These demons varied in height, which led to the creation of differently sized arches in the bridge. At dawn, the devil showed up at the end of the bridge to collect his "reward". Saint Columbanus sent a little dog to the devil as payment. Deceived, the devil returned to hell, but not before kicking his creation, causing the tilt that gives the bridge its characteristic "hunchback" appearance.

A corner of history, culture and nature. To visit absolutely

An impressive bridge with a long history