In the charming town of Gravina in Puglia, tucked away in the heart of southern Italy, lies a hidden gem of historical and architectural significance—the Ponte Acquedotto Madonna della Stella. This remarkable structure, often simply referred to as the Ponte di Gravina, is more than just a bridge; it is a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the people who built it. Spanning the ravine over the Gravina River, this 18th-century bridge and aqueduct is a marvel that beckons history enthusiasts, architecture buffs, and curious travelers alike.
The story of the Ponte Acquedotto Madonna della Stella is intertwined with the history of Gravina in Puglia itself. The bridge derives its name from the nearby medieval church and cave sanctuary dedicated to the Madonna della Stella. According to local tradition, the Madonna was once depicted in a now-lost fresco, wearing a blue mantle adorned with a silver star, which was believed to be miraculous during the Renaissance period.
The current structure, stretching 90 meters in length and 5.5 meters in width, was built in the mid-18th century. It replaced an earlier bridge that had been damaged by an earthquake in 1686 and subsequently collapsed in another quake in 1722. The rebuilding and transformation of the bridge into an aqueduct were ordered by the Orsini family, who sought to bring water from the springs of Sant'Angelo and San Giacomo to the town. The project, overseen by engineer Di Costanzo, began in 1743 and was largely completed by 1778.
The Ponte Acquedotto Madonna della Stella is a two-tiered arched structure, rising to a height of 37.5 meters. It is constructed from local limestone, giving it a robust and enduring presence. The southern parapet, at 3 meters high, is twice the height of the northern side, accommodating the water channel that once carried life-giving water to the town.
The aqueduct system, of which the bridge is a part, originates about 3 kilometers northwest of Gravina's center, at the springs of Sant'Angelo in the Lamacolma area. The water from these springs was captured and transported through a series of underground galleries and inspection wells, descending a gentle slope of 0.2% over its 3.5-kilometer length. This ingenious design allowed for a continuous flow of water, even during maintenance work, thanks to a double-channel system within the aqueduct.
Today, the Ponte Acquedotto Madonna della Stella stands as a silent witness to the past, its stone arches gracefully spanning the ravine, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The bridge’s historical significance and architectural beauty have not gone unnoticed in modern times. It has been featured in international film productions, including the 2021 James Bond movie No Time to Die, where it was cinematically transplanted to connect Matera with its necropolis. To protect the historic structure during filming, it was carefully wrapped in steel sheets and equipped with false wiring for the action sequences.
In recognition of its cultural importance and potential as a tourist attraction, the Apulia region granted 1.5 million euros for restoration works in late 2019. These efforts included the removal of accumulated debris, preventive weed control, crack mitigation, and improved lighting to enhance the bridge's allure for visitors.
A visit to the Ponte Acquedotto Madonna della Stella is not complete without exploring the surrounding area. The bridge leads to the ancient church and cave sanctuary of Madonna della Stella, where visitors can immerse themselves in the spiritual and historical ambiance of this sacred place. The area around the bridge is dotted with caves and rock-hewn dwellings, adding to the sense of stepping back in time.
As you stroll across the bridge, take a moment to appreciate the engineering prowess that went into its construction. Imagine the labor and skill required to transport and assemble the massive limestone blocks, and the foresight needed to design an aqueduct that would serve the town for centuries. The views from the bridge are nothing short of spectacular, with the rugged landscape of Gravina in Puglia stretching out before you, offering a picturesque backdrop to your journey.
The Ponte Acquedotto Madonna della Stella is more than just a bridge; it is a symbol of the resilience and ingenuity of the people of Gravina in Puglia. Its graceful arches and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through southern Italy. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, this remarkable structure promises to leave you in awe of its beauty and the stories it holds within its stones.
So, take a step back in time and walk across the Ponte Acquedotto Madonna della Stella, where history and architecture converge to create an unforgettable experience in the heart of Puglia.
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