Devil's Bridge Cividale
An iconic 15th-century stone bridge in Cividale del Friuli, famed for its devilish legend and spanning the emerald Natisone River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for river & town views
Devil's Bridge Cividale
Best Time
Best light for river & town views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic 15th-century stone bridge in Cividale del Friuli, famed for its devilish legend and spanning the emerald Natisone River.
"The bridge is a must-see, offering history, myth, and breathtaking views."
📸 Capture the Emerald River
The Natisone River's unique color is best seen in daylight. Aim for clear skies!
🚶♀️ Explore the Backstreets
Beyond the bridge, Cividale's charming alleys offer local charm and hidden gems.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Devil's Bridge
Cividale del Friuli
An iconic 15th-century stone bridge with a devilish legend, spanning the emerald Natisone River.
Natisone River Gorge
Below the Devil's Bridge
Witness the breathtaking emerald-green waters cascading through the dramatic gorge.
Cividale del Friuli Old Town
Surrounding the bridge
Wander through charming medieval streets, discovering history and local life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Legend
Timing is Key for Views
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Emerald River
The Natisone River's unique color is best seen in daylight. Aim for clear skies!
🚶♀️ Explore the Backstreets
Beyond the bridge, Cividale's charming alleys offer local charm and hidden gems.
📜 Learn the Legend
Understanding the devil's pact adds a layer of magic to your visit. +1
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Cobblestone streets and exploring the town require good footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Emerald River
The Natisone River's unique color is best seen in daylight. Aim for clear skies!
🚶♀️ Explore the Backstreets
Beyond the bridge, Cividale's charming alleys offer local charm and hidden gems.
📜 Learn the Legend
Understanding the devil's pact adds a layer of magic to your visit. +1
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Cobblestone streets and exploring the town require good footwear. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Devil's Bridge and the stunning emerald waters of the Natisone River as the main draw. The historical charm of Cividale del Friuli and its captivating legends also receive high marks, making it a memorable stop. Some note that the town itself, beyond the bridge, offers a peaceful exploration of local life.
"Really beautiful day-trip, in my opinion one of the best places in Friuli..you have to come to visit this wonderful medieval little city!"
Kir Sche
"What a spectacular, atmospheric spot! The Ponte del Diavolo crossing the emerald Natisone River is a true architectural marvel, especially its iconic, slightly asymmetrical arches resting on that massive central rock.
But the real magic lies in the legend! 📜 It’s said the locals couldn't finish this complex bridge and summoned the Devil for help. In exchange for his construction skills, he demanded the soul of the first creature to cross. Did they give him a soul? No way! They sent a dog (or a cat!) across first. Fooled and enraged, the Devil tried to destroy his work but was repelled by a cross.
The views of the river gorge from the bridge are stunning—perfect for photos that capture the blend of medieval engineering and myth. A must-see landmark in Cividale del Friuli!"
Arthis
"What is actually interesting is the canyon over which the bridge is built and the river itself, which cascades down. The bridge itself and the surrounding buildings are part of history and past times, which we can see a lot of in Italy."
Jože Habinc
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Devil's Bridge is located in Cividale del Friuli, easily accessible by car or public transport. From Udine, you can take a bus or train to Cividale. Once in town, the bridge is a short walk from the center.
Yes, Cividale del Friuli is situated very close to the Slovenian border, making it a convenient stop for those traveling between Italy and Slovenia.
Absolutely! Cividale del Friuli is easily visited as a day trip, especially from nearby cities like Udine. The town and its famous bridge can be explored in a few hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to Devil's Bridge and the surrounding area is free. You can walk across it and admire the views without any admission fee.
Devil's Bridge is always accessible as it's a public landmark. However, for the best experience and views of the river, visit during daylight hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Legend has it that the bridge was built with the help of the devil, who demanded the soul of the first creature to cross. Locals cleverly sent an animal, outwitting him. +2
Besides admiring the bridge and the Natisone River gorge, explore the historic town of Cividale del Friuli, wander its medieval streets, and enjoy local cuisine.
Yes, Devil's Bridge offers stunning photographic opportunities, especially with the emerald river, the historic architecture, and the surrounding landscape.
For the most vibrant views of the emerald Natisone River and good lighting for photos, visiting in the morning or late afternoon during spring and summer is ideal.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are several charming trattorias and cafes in Cividale del Friuli where you can enjoy local Friulian cuisine and a glass of wine after visiting the bridge.
Look for regional specialties like 'frico' (a cheese and potato dish), 'cjalsons' (stuffed pasta), and local wines such as Friulano or Refosco.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the bridge from various angles, including from the riverbanks below for a dramatic perspective, and from the town side to include the medieval architecture.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations. Always check for any restrictions before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider packing snacks and drinks, as exploring can work up an appetite. While there aren't specific playgrounds right at the bridge, the town has charming squares where children can enjoy a break. The visual appeal of the emerald river and the medieval architecture can also keep them engaged.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Experiment with different angles, including from the riverbanks below for a more dramatic perspective, and from the town side to incorporate the historic buildings. Golden hour, during spring and summer mornings or late afternoons, provides the best light for capturing the vibrant colors of the water and the textures of the stone bridge.
+1 Don't forget to explore the charming streets of Cividale del Friuli itself, as they offer numerous opportunities for street photography and capturing the essence of this historic Italian town. +1🏛️ History Buffs
Take your time to wander through the ancient streets and absorb the historical atmosphere. The town's strategic location and its role throughout various historical periods have left an indelible mark on its architecture and culture.
+1 The Devil's Bridge legend adds a unique mythical layer to the tangible history you'll encounter. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Devil's Bridge
This enduring legend has cemented the bridge's place in local culture and attracts visitors eager to hear the story firsthand. The bridge itself, built in the 15th century, has a rich history of survival, having been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, yet it remains a proud symbol of Cividale del Friuli.
Whether you believe in the supernatural or simply appreciate historical architecture and captivating stories, the legend of the Devil's Bridge offers a unique narrative that enhances the visitor experience. It's a reminder of how myths and history intertwine to create unforgettable travel memories.
Exploring Cividale del Friuli
The town offers a delightful experience for those who enjoy leisurely exploration. You can discover ancient temples, monasteries, and museums that tell the story of its significant historical role. The Natisone River, with its crystal-clear, emerald waters, adds to the town's picturesque beauty, especially when viewed from the bridge or its banks.
+2For a truly immersive experience, take time to savor the local atmosphere. Enjoy a coffee at a local cafe, sample regional Friulian cuisine at a traditional trattoria, and soak in the peaceful ambiance.
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