PONTE SERENO

Location: Ferentino/Sornino, Lazio (Italy) — 41.7047 N, 13.2668 E

Dating: 6th–3rd centuries BC

Characteristics: Ponte Sereno’s polygonal base runs for approximately 90 meters with an opening which could have been used as an ancient gateway. The polygonal masonry supports an eight-arched bridge later constructed by the Romans. The bridge is located on a historic road between the famous polygonal citadels of Alatri and Ferentino. The polygonal blocks are of substantial size and show impressive precision. Visual observation indicates the blocks are commonly over 1 meter in length or width with irregular faces, similar to other regional Italic polygonal stonework.

Polygonal classification: Type II (Lugli)

Attribution: The bridge’s underlying polygonal base is attributed to pre-Roman peoples while the superstructure is dated to Rome’s imperial era (approximately 260 AD).

Specific points to see:

• Via Aielle Pastolica