Acquedotto Medievale di Salerno (Medieval Aqueduct of Salerno), Salerno
The Medieval Aqueduct of Salerno, often referred to as the Devil's Bridges, stands as an iconic symbol and a marvel of medieval engineering. Constructed in the 10th century by Benedictine monks, the Medieval Aqueduct traverses Via Arce, representing a conduit that transported water from the northern hills to the Monastery of San Benedetto. Folklore intertwines with the aqueduct's history, as it is fondly known as "the Devil's Bridges."
The aqueduct, colloquially known as the "Devil's Bridge", earned its mysterious reputation from a captivating legend that unfolded in the 12th century. According to local lore, the renowned Salerno magician Pietro Barliario, aided by supernatural forces, constructed this marvel overnight. Fueled by popular superstition, tales circulated that venturing beneath the arches between dusk and dawn could lead to encounters with devils or malevolent spirits.
The legend finds its roots in the unique topography of the aqueduct's location. Until the early 20th century, the area remained inaccessible, with the Rafastia stream flowing beneath the road surface and devoid of houses, nestled close to the towering city walls. The pointed arch, an architectural innovation of the time, likely added an element of awe and fear, contributing to the mystical aura surrounding the aqueduct.
Another captivating tale weaves through the arches, claiming that the four founders of the Salerno Medical School serendipitously met beneath the aqueduct on a stormy night. Adela, representing the Arab influence, Ponto from Greece, Elino, a Jewish figure, and the Latin Salerno, symbolizing the local essence, allegedly converged in a moment that echoed Salerno's role as a bustling crossroads of diverse peoples, religions, and cultures during that era.
The aqueduct, colloquially known as the "Devil's Bridge", earned its mysterious reputation from a captivating legend that unfolded in the 12th century. According to local lore, the renowned Salerno magician Pietro Barliario, aided by supernatural forces, constructed this marvel overnight. Fueled by popular superstition, tales circulated that venturing beneath the arches between dusk and dawn could lead to encounters with devils or malevolent spirits.
The legend finds its roots in the unique topography of the aqueduct's location. Until the early 20th century, the area remained inaccessible, with the Rafastia stream flowing beneath the road surface and devoid of houses, nestled close to the towering city walls. The pointed arch, an architectural innovation of the time, likely added an element of awe and fear, contributing to the mystical aura surrounding the aqueduct.
Another captivating tale weaves through the arches, claiming that the four founders of the Salerno Medical School serendipitously met beneath the aqueduct on a stormy night. Adela, representing the Arab influence, Ponto from Greece, Elino, a Jewish figure, and the Latin Salerno, symbolizing the local essence, allegedly converged in a moment that echoed Salerno's role as a bustling crossroads of diverse peoples, religions, and cultures during that era.
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Acquedotto Medievale di Salerno (Medieval Aqueduct of Salerno) on Map
Sight Name: Acquedotto Medievale di Salerno (Medieval Aqueduct of Salerno)
Sight Location: Salerno, Italy (See walking tours in Salerno)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Salerno, Italy (See walking tours in Salerno)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Salerno, Italy
Create Your Own Walk in Salerno
Creating your own self-guided walk in Salerno is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Salerno Medieval Architecture Walking Tour
Salerno's medieval architecture is a captivating tapestry woven with the threads of history, culture, and craftsmanship. Our journey through its facets starts by the sea, at the ancient New Gate (Porta Nova) that once served as a crucial entry point to the city, welcoming travelers and protecting residents within its sturdy walls.
Our next stop is the picturesque Medieval Aqueduct... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Our next stop is the picturesque Medieval Aqueduct... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Salerno Introduction Walking Tour
A vibrant seaport on the southeastern fringe of Italy's famed Amalfi Coast 鈥� the one often viewed as an attraction for jet-setters, 鈥� Salerno stands apart from its glitzy counterparts in that it is favored by those who seek a serene yet captivating retreat.
Human settlement at Salerno dates back to pre-historic times. The city's name, believed to have originated from the Latin... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.5 Km or 2.2 Miles
Human settlement at Salerno dates back to pre-historic times. The city's name, believed to have originated from the Latin... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.5 Km or 2.2 Miles