Geoarchaelogical Study of the Roman Pietra Dell’Oglio Bridge at the Service of the Old Appian Way, Campania, Southern Italy

A geoarchaeological study of the Roman Pietra dell’Oglio bridge, located near the border between Campania and Basilicata, Italy, reveals that it is the only surviving Roman infrastructure crossing the Ofanto River in this region. The research identifies the bridge with the ancient Pons Aufidi, linking it to the old Appian Way route between Mirabella Eclano and Venosa. Built using opus quadratum and opus incertum techniques with local materials such as pebbles from the Ofanto River and travertine, the bridge's construction dates suggest a timeline of 2nd to 1st century BCE. The study highlights 18 original architectural elements, while noting subsequent restorations, modifications, and additions over the centuries. This work advances understanding of Roman bridge engineering in Campania, providing insights into the durability and adaptability of ancient infrastructure.

Chiocchini, U., De Piano, M., Gaeta, M., Pagliuca, E., Polzone, N., & Sarmento, F. (2021). Geoarchaelogical Study of the Roman Pietra Dell’Oglio Bridge at the Service of the Old Appian Way, Campania, Southern Italy. Archaeological Discovery, 09(04), 223–258. https://doi.org/10.4236/ad.2021.94012