Ponte di Cecco
A 2000-year-old Roman bridge in Ascoli Piceno, connecting history and legend across the Castellano stream.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Ponte di Cecco
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 2000-year-old Roman bridge in Ascoli Piceno, connecting history and legend across the Castellano stream.
"Walk across this ancient Roman marvel and feel the echoes of history beneath your feet."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. :athletic_shoe: Explore Ascoli Piceno's historic center with ease.
Capture the Bridge at Dawn
The soft morning light offers stunning photo opportunities of Ponte di Cecco. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Ancient Roman Bridge
Spans the Castellano stream
Walk across this 2000-year-old Roman marvel, connecting Porta Maggiore to Forte Malatesta.
Forte Malatesta Views
Adjacent to the bridge
Enjoy panoramic views of the bridge and the Castellano stream from this historic fortress.
Porta Maggiore District
Northern end of the bridge
Explore the charming streets and historic architecture of this vibrant Ascoli Piceno neighborhood.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Ponte di Cecco
Getting Around Ascoli Piceno
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. :athletic_shoe: Explore Ascoli Piceno's historic center with ease.
Capture the Bridge at Dawn
The soft morning light offers stunning photo opportunities of Ponte di Cecco. :camerawithflash:
Explore the Fortress
Don't miss the views from Forte Malatesta, adjacent to the bridge. :world_map:
Visit Porta Maggiore
Wander through the historic Porta Maggiore district for a true Ascoli Piceno experience. :housewithgarden:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. :athletic_shoe: Explore Ascoli Piceno's historic center with ease.
Capture the Bridge at Dawn
The soft morning light offers stunning photo opportunities of Ponte di Cecco. :camerawithflash:
Explore the Fortress
Don't miss the views from Forte Malatesta, adjacent to the bridge. :world_map:
Visit Porta Maggiore
Wander through the historic Porta Maggiore district for a true Ascoli Piceno experience. :housewithgarden:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by Ponte di Cecco's ancient Roman origins and its well-preserved state, offering a tangible link to history. The bridge's picturesque setting and the surrounding historic districts of Ascoli Piceno are frequently praised, making it a highlight for many exploring the city. While generally well-received, some visitors note that parking can be difficult in the historic center.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ponte di Cecco is located in the historic center of Ascoli Piceno and is easily accessible on foot. If arriving by car, parking can be challenging; consider using public parking areas outside the immediate vicinity and walking. The nearest major transport hub is Ascoli Piceno train station, from which you can take a local bus or taxi to reach the historic center.
Yes, Ponte di Cecco is centrally located and walkable from many other key attractions in Ascoli Piceno, including Piazza del Popolo and Piazza Arringo. It's part of the charming historic center that's best explored on foot.
Ascoli Piceno is accessible by train, with connections from major Italian cities. The nearest airport is Ancona (AOI), from which you can take a train or bus to Ascoli Piceno. Driving is also an option, but be prepared for limited parking within the historic center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Ponte di Cecco is a public bridge and can be visited freely at any time. There are no admission fees to walk across it or admire it from the surrounding areas.
As a public bridge, Ponte di Cecco is accessible 24/7. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety.
There is no entrance fee to access Ponte di Cecco. It is a historic monument that is open to the public for free.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the most beautiful light for photography. The golden hour can create stunning shots of the Roman bridge. Drone photography can also capture unique perspectives, as seen in some reels.
The bridge itself, with the Castellano stream flowing beneath, is highly photogenic. Views from Forte Malatesta and the surrounding Porta Maggiore district also offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Drone photography is possible and can yield spectacular results, as demonstrated by some creators. However, always check local regulations regarding drone usage in historic areas and near fortifications.
🎫 🏛️ History & Legends
Ponte di Cecco is a Roman bridge dating back to the Republican era, making it over 2000 years old. It was once mistakenly believed to be medieval. It connects the Porta Maggiore district to the Malatesta fortress. 
Yes, local legends suggest the bridge was built in a single night, with one tale involving Cecco d'Ascoli and the devil. Another legend claims it was built by Cecco himself with supernatural aid.
Cecco d'Ascoli was an Italian poet, physician, astrologer, and philosopher of the late Middle Ages, known for his controversial views and eventual execution for heresy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with exploring Forte Malatesta, which often has open spaces for children to run around. The surrounding Porta Maggiore district is also pleasant for a stroll, and Ascoli Piceno's main piazzas are nearby for gelato breaks. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as the historic center has cobblestones.
📸 Photographers & Drone Enthusiasts
Drone pilots can capture stunning aerial perspectives of the bridge, the stream, and the connection to Forte Malatesta. As seen in some reels, these shots can be incredibly cinematic. Just be sure to research and adhere to any local drone regulations before flying.
🚶 History Buffs
+1Delve into the legends of Cecco d'Ascoli and the devil, which add a layer of intrigue to the bridge's history. Visiting Forte Malatesta nearby further enriches the historical context, offering a glimpse into the defensive structures of the past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Roman Engineering Marvel
+1Recent architectural and archaeological studies have confirmed its ancient Roman roots, highlighting the sophisticated techniques used in its construction. The bridge's enduring presence is a significant part of Ascoli Piceno's rich historical tapestry, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past.
Walking across Ponte di Cecco provides a unique perspective on its design and the sheer longevity of its structure. It's a simple yet profound experience, allowing you to tread the same path as Romans did thousands of years ago.
Legends and Local Lore
+1Another variation of the legend attributes the bridge's rapid construction to Cecco d'Ascoli's own ingenuity and perhaps some form of supernatural assistance. These stories, passed down through generations, add a layer of enchantment to the already impressive historical monument, making a visit feel like stepping into a folktale.
These legends contribute to the bridge's enduring charm and its status as a beloved landmark in Ascoli Piceno. They offer a glimpse into the local culture and the way history is interwoven with folklore in the region.
Exploring the Surroundings
+1From the bridge and the fortress, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Castellano stream and the surrounding cityscape. The Forte Malatesta itself is a significant historical site, offering insights into the region's defensive past and providing elevated vantage points for photography.
Exploring the Porta Maggiore district after crossing the bridge allows for a deeper immersion into Ascoli Piceno's authentic urban fabric. This area offers a chance to discover local life, architecture, and perhaps stumble upon hidden gems.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit