Today I want to talk to you about a magical and misterious place, symbol of Lanzo and its valleys.
I’m talking about the Devil’s Bridge, or original name Ponte del Ròch (“Stone Bridge” in Piedmontese), was built at the end of 1300 as a direct connection between the Lanzo Valleys and Turin, crossing the Stura river without passing by the neighboring villages. The cost for its construction was 1400 florins and a tax on wine was imposed on the population of Lanzo for 10 years.
In 1564 a door was constructed on the bridge (of which, nowadays, only the arch is visible) and was closed during outbreaks of epidemics, such as the plague, to prevent contagion from outsiders. In September of that same year a toll was introduced, called “the bill of the place of origin”, marked with the seal of Lanzo; anyone without it could not cross the bridge.
…but why is it called “Devil’s Bridge”?
The are several legends surrounding the construction of the Bridge, but the most well-known (and from which its name derives) tells that, after two bridges were built and collapsed, it was the devil himself who took care of its construction; in exchange, he asked for the soul of the first passerby. Homever, the people of Lanzo decided to let a little dog pass, so the lord of the underworld, becoming enraged, would have violently slammed his hooves on the surrounding rocks, forming the characteristic Giant’s Kettles.
At the foot of the San Rocco Chapel, it is said that one can see the imprint left by the hoof of the devil who, once completing the work, would have crossed the bridge in a single big step.
Who knows if you can find it?
You should know that the Bridge is part of the Devil’s Bridge Nature Reserve; it’s a protected area managed by the Royal Parks Authority (which also includes the Natural Park of La Mandria in Venaria Reale), so it’s important to follow behavioral rules, such as not abandoning waste or damaging the flora, in order to protect and preserve the natural and cultural characteristics of this enchanting Park.
The Nature Reserve offers a wide range of activities to do, especially with the arrival of beautiful season. You can cool off with a swim in the fresh waters of the Stura river, organize picnics in the equipped area of the Casetta del Parco (“Park House”), or, if you’re an expert and want to try more adventurous activities, you can go climbing on the cliffs. For those who like to explore or take a simple walk, there are also several itineraries and trails to follow.
So, if what you’re looking for is a suggestive place to spend a day outdoors, a stop at the Devil’s Bridge Nature Reserve is an absolute must!
A curiosity
Arriving at the entrance of the Devil’s Bridge Park and looking towards the building across in via Frasca, you’ll immediately be struck by a beautiful mural. What is it about? Let me tell you right away!
The masterpiece in question is created by the Piedmontese artist Vesod Brero, a native of Lanzo. As the name suggests, it depicts Lucifer, the fallen angel represented in a more human form during the creation of the famous Bridge.
The creation of the mural has not only embellished the building, but also revitalized the surrounding urban space.
Points of interest
Lucifer, mural of Vesod
How to reach the Devil’s Bridge in Lanzo from Cascina 6b
By car: reachable in just 20 minutes towards Lanzo. Once you reach Lanzo, follow the signs to the city centre. Before the tunnel leading to Germagnano, turn right towards the Devil’s Bridge, park your car in the free parking and within a few minutes, you’ll find yourself in front of the Bridge.
Public transports: reachable by train in about 1 hour. Depart from San Maurizio Canavese station towards Ciriè and get off at the station with the same name. From here take the train to Germagnano and get off at Lanzo Torinese station. Within a 10-minute walk, you will reach the Bridge.
Clothing kit
Casual clothes and comfortable shoes
I wish you to
ENJOY YOUR TRIP 🙂
