Ponte Sisto

Bridge: crosses the Tevere (Tiber) River.

Old: dates from 4th or 5th century, but was partially destroyed in 770.
You remember 770 don't you? Anyway, Pope Sixtus IV had it re-built in 1473
and everyone was so happy they named it after him, Sisto, which is the
Italian equivalent of the latin Sixtus, both meaning Sixth! Which means
that Pope Sixtus IV, technically, was Pope 6th the 4th. Which makes me think
of that bank in Ohio called First Third Bank, the name of which always gives
me a splitting headache.

Significance: takes us to visit Giacomo in Trastevere and to Isa's bar for
coffee. Maria also lives over there, as well as James and Alex and, well, we
use this bridge a lot and can never cross it without stopping midway to
admire the view.

Status: It's a footbridge, no cars or motorinos allowed anymore.
Heroin addicts and their wild dogs, street musicians and their instruments,
Africans selling black market designer handbags, okay.

Warning: You don't want to fall off this bridge. The waters are pushed along
on their way to the Mediterranean Sea by a heavy current. Also, the Tevere is
polluted. However, if you choose to fall in and are an eternal optimist, remember
that the river is full of eels, a delicacy enjoyed in ancient Roman times as well as
today. In fact, eel is a traditional item on the menu for Christmas Eve dinner.
So, pick up a few on your way out. You'll be the envy of all your friends this holiday!

Magical Places in Roma Score: 9.5