Ponte antico sul Fiume Ofanto: An Ancient Roman Bridge in Italy
Visitor Information
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Official Website: www.canusium.it
Country: Italy
Civilization: Roman
Remains: Infrastructure
History
The Ponte antico sul Fiume Ofanto is an ancient bridge located near Cerignola in Italy. It was constructed by the Romans, who built numerous infrastructures across the region to connect important settlements and facilitate movement.
The bridge spans the Ofanto River, historically known as the Aufidus, a waterway of considerable significance in antiquity. This river marked the site of the famous Battle of Cannae in 216 BCE, where Roman and Carthaginian forces clashed during the Second Punic War. Ancient historians such as Polybius recorded this battle, while poets like Horace and Virgil later celebrated it in their works, highlighting the river’s role in military history.
The area surrounding the Ofanto was home to several notable ancient cities, including Canusium (modern Canosa di Puglia) and the fortress of Cannae. These settlements underscored the strategic importance of the river crossing, as control over this region influenced military and trade routes. The bridge likely served as a vital link within this network, facilitating movement between these centers.
Ancient geographers and cartographers, including Strabo and the creators of the Tabula Peutingeriana—a Roman road map—documented the region, indicating its integration into the broader Roman infrastructure.
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