Tiber Island: Rome's Little River Island, Its Bridges and Its Basilica

Tiber Island (Isola Tiberina) is the only island in the Tiber in Rome: a ship-shaped islet about 270 metres long and 67 wide, between the Ghetto district and Trastevere. Two bridges link it to both banks, one of which, the Fabricius Bridge, dates from 62 BC and is still used by pedestrians. There is a basilica, a hospital and, from the bridges, a lovely view of the river. It takes 30 to 45 minutes, as part of a walk between the Ghetto and Trastevere.

Highlights

The Fabricius Bridge

Built in 62 BC, the Fabricius Bridge (Ponte Fabricio) is the oldest bridge in Rome still in use in its original state. Romans also call it "Ponte dei Quattro Capi" ("Four Heads Bridge") because of the column with two double-faced herms (four heads in all) on the parapet. It links the island to the Ghetto bank.

The island seen from the river

According to tradition, a temple of Aesculapius, god of medicine, was built on the island after an epidemic, and remains of a decoration shaped like a ship's prow survive on the downstream side. Ever since, the island has been associated with healing, and the Fatebenefratelli hospital still treats patients there.

The Basilica of St Bartholomew

On the island's square, the church of San Bartolomeo all'Isola, of medieval origin, was rebuilt after several alterations. It houses a memorial to the Christian martyrs of the 20th century, run by the Sant'Egidio community.

The Cestius Bridge

The Ponte Cestio links the island to Trastevere. The present bridge was rebuilt in the late 19th century on the site of the Roman bridge. From its approaches, the view of the river and its embankments is one of the most photographed in the city.

The Tiber embankments

Stairs lead down to the banks, at the foot of the city walls. In summer the island hosts the "Isola del Cinema" festival with open-air screenings; the programme changes every year.

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