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Home / Ancient Roman Sites and Ruins /

Ponte Sisto

Written by: Artur Jakucewicz

Ponte Sisto Bridge in Trastevere in Rome
Recommended tour
Closest bus stops
Arenula/Min. G. Giustizia7 min 348 m: 63
Lgt Vallati/Pettinari2 min 95 m: 23 280
Closest subway stations
Circo Massimo33 min 1.6 km: B
Ottaviano 46 min 2.3 km: B
Address Piazza Trilussa, Roma

Ponte Sisto is a bridge in Rome’s historical center, spanning the Tiber River and connecting Piazza Trilussa to Via del Pettinari in Trastevere Neighborhood. The Renaissance bridge was built by Pope Sixtus IV between 1473 and 1479 as a replacement for an ancient bridge located in the same place before and named Pons Aurelius.

Contents

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  • Things to Know before Visit Ponte Sisto
    • Who built Ponte Sisto?
    • Is Ponte Sisto a pedestrian bridge?
    • What is the best time to visit the Ponte Sisto in Rome?
    • What are the holes inside the Ponte Sisto for?
    • From what angle is it better to photograph the Ponte Sisto?
  • Historical Facts
  • Hotel Ponte Sisto
    • How much does it cost to stay at Hotel Ponte Sisto?
    • What are the check-in and check-out times at Hotel Ponte Sisto?
  • Nearby Attractions

Things to Know before Visit Ponte Sisto

Who built Ponte Sisto?

Pedestrian bridge Ponte Sisto was built between 1473 and 1479 by Pope Sixtus VI, connecting the southwest edge of Campus Martius to Trastevere, just west of Tiber Island. The bridge reuses the foundations of the Pons Aurelius; an ancient bridge destroyed during the middle ages.

Is Ponte Sisto a pedestrian bridge?

Yes, Ponte Sisto is a pedestrian bridge. Historically, it has always been for pedestrians only. Pilgrims used this bridge to reach the Vatican City, emphasizing its importance in Rome's religious and cultural history.

What is the best time to visit the Ponte Sisto in Rome?

The best time to visit the Sixtus Bridge is during sunset. At this hour, the left side of the bridge offers a breathtaking view of the dome of St. Peter's Basilica, creating a picturesque scene that is ideal for photography and a serene experience.

What are the holes inside the Ponte Sisto for?

The holes inside the Ponte Sisto are designed to pass water during floods. These circular openings help alleviate the pressure on the bridge during high water levels, protecting its structure and ensuring the safety of the bridge during heavy rains.

From what angle is it better to photograph the Ponte Sisto?

The best place to photograph the Sixtus Bridge is from the nearby Garibaldi Bridge, which is a 5-minute walk away. This vantage point offers a comprehensive view of Ponte Sisto, capturing its elegant architecture and the flowing Tiber River, making it perfect for stunning photos.

Historical Facts

According to historical facts, in 1450, a mule became unruly on the bridge during a crowded Jubilee Year procession, and many people fell into the Tiber River. So, during the 1475 Jubilee Year, Pope Sixtus IV built a new bridge to contribute access to Saint Pietro. The Pope gave his name to the bridge and asked those who crossed the construction to pray for his health, as the inscription on Ponte Sisto said.

Ponte Sisto bridge in Rome

The bridge has two inscriptions written by Bartolomeo Platina, who was the librarian of Pope Sixtus.

Ponte Sisto is one of the most lively bridges in Rome because it connects two night-life areas of Trastevere and Campo de Fiori.

Musicians on the Sixtus Bridge in Rome

As a result, there are always a lot of locals and tourists, singers, artists, sellers of different things, and photographs. Moreover, the bridge has become part of Italy’s pop culture since you can see it in films, ads, or music clips.

Ponte Sisto in Trastevere Vatican view

Hotel Ponte Sisto

Hotel Ponte Sisto is a former monastery with a fantastic courtyard, where a buffet breakfast is offered every morning.

Hotel Ponte Sisto Roma guest review

The hotel’s feature is its central location and modern, spacious rooms with all facilities. Undoubtedly, this hotel is one of my favorites in Rome! Read more in our article about the Best 4-star hotels in Rome.

How much does it cost to stay at Hotel Ponte Sisto?

The prices at Hotel Ponte Sisto may vary depending on your stay, but usually, a room for 2 people costs from 165 to 392 euros per night. Please enter the dates on the hotel page to see the exact rates in your currency.

What are the check-in and check-out times at Hotel Ponte Sisto?

Check-in at Hotel Ponte Sisto is from 2:00 PM, and check-out is until 11:00 AM. If you arrive earlier, you can leave your luggage at the reception, walk around Rome and return to the hotel after 2 PM at any time convenient for you.

Nearby Attractions

Fountain of the Four Rivers
15 min 2490 ft 760 m
Piazza Navona
16 min 2620 ft 800 m
The Fountain of Neptune
17 min 2790 ft 850 m
Mouth of Truth
20 min 3280 ft 1000 m
Bridge of Angels
22 min 3670 ft 1.1 km
Knights of Malta Keyhole
24 min 4000 ft 1.2 km
Rose Garden
26 min 4270 ft 1.3 km
Monument to Giuseppe Mazzini
28 min 4590 ft 1.4 km
Trevi Fountain
29 min 4760 ft 1.5 km
Sistine Chapel
35 min 1.1 mi 1.8 km

Author: Artur Jakucewicz

Artur Jakucewicz

I’ve lived in Rome for over a decade and am delighted to share my knowledge and experience. Passionate about ancient history and architecture, I’m the author of travel guides to Italy designed especially for independent travellers.

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About us ROME.US Authors Kate Zusmann and Artur Jakucewicz
We're Kate and Artur, a duo bound by our shared fascination with the Eternal City – Rome. Our paths, driven by a mutual passion for its timeless stories and architectural marvels, converged in a way we had never imagined.

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