Ponte del Mare is a 466-metre bridge over the Pescara River, inaugurated in 2009 to link the two banks of the city. Only pedestrians and cyclists may cross it. From the middle you see the harbour, the coast, the city along the river, and the Majella and Gran Sasso mountains inland. Go before sunset for the widest view, and return after dark, when colour-changing LED lights trace the whole curve.
Why the bridge was built
Ponte del Mare was inaugurated in 2009 with the aim of connecting the two shores of Pescara. It crosses the Pescara River, where the two banks of the city meet. It is one of the city's best-known structures and one of the newest in the city's skyline.
The architect Walter Pichler designed the bridge, and it is often described as the largest pedestrian and cycle bridge in Italy and one of the largest in Europe.
The shape and what you see from it
The bridge is 466 metres long and follows a sinuous, curving line over the water. Its height gives a clear view of the harbour and the coast. From the crossing you can see the yacht port and the long beaches, with the sea and the sky meeting at the horizon.
Inland, the Majella and Gran Sasso massifs rise in the distance. The Ferris wheel and the marina are close by, so the view from the bridge also includes the seafront.
How a visit works
Only pedestrians and cyclists use the bridge, so you can walk or ride across without cars. The entrance and the parking lot are both wheelchair accessible.
Sunset gives the widest view. At night the whole curve is lit by colour-changing LED lights. Some people also run here in the morning. From the bridge you can continue along the seafront or towards the city centre, where the cathedral of San Cetteo and Piazza della Rinascita are located.
FAQ
Is Ponte del Mare open at night?
Yes, the bridge is open at all hours. At night its curved outline is lit by colour-changing LED lights.
Can you cycle across Ponte del Mare?
Yes. The bridge is for pedestrians and cyclists only, so walkers and riders share the crossing without cars.
How long is Ponte del Mare?
The bridge is 466 metres long. It was inaugurated in 2009.
Is Ponte del Mare wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entrance and the parking lot are both wheelchair accessible.
