This is one of many bridges that cross the River Tiber and this one serves the pedestrian mall heading to the Vatican City. Named in honour of the first King of the unified states of Italy who passed in 1878 , it was finished in 1911. The large bronzed winged Victories on the end pedestals catch your attention as you pass. Pity about the graffiti which adorns this lovely bridge?

One of the many bridges that cross the Rome’s Tiber River, Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II is a central, landmark bridge, connecting the city centre to Vatican City. It’s a relative newbie compared to some of the other bridges and was designed in 1886 but not completed until 1911. It’s a very busy bridge with lots of traffic but there are adequate footpaths on both sides. What catches the eye here are the 4 large, allegorical sculptures along the bridge. Carved from travertine marble they symbolise ‘Oppression Conquered’, ‘Loyalty to the State’, ‘the Flame of Freedom’ and the ‘Unification of Italy’. They are full of heightened drama which is not at all surprising because this was the period following Italian unification. They were intended to celebrate and glorify the ideals of a new Italy. Two colossal bronze winged Victories also stand at both ends of the bridge. However, they are best seen from a distance as you approach the bridge because the very tall pedestals make it very hard to see them up close.