Italy is experiencing a severe water shortage, causing the Tiber River in Rome to drop to its lowest level in years. The river's flow is now less than half of its usual volume for this time of year. This extreme dry spell has uncovered historical ruins in the city center.
Near the Vittorio Emanuele bridge, two ancient stone supports have appeared above the water. These are the remains of the Pons Neronianus, also known as Nero's Bridge. It was built in the first century AD during the Roman Empire to connect the city center to the eastern bank and imperial estates.
Historians believe the bridge was important for both military and religious reasons. It was used for parades and transporting prisoners. However, experts debate whether Emperor Nero, who ruled from 54 to 68 AD, actually built it. Archaeologist Antonella Bonini suggests it might be older, possibly built by Nero's uncle, Emperor Caligula, around 39 AD.
The bridge was located on a bend in the river prone to flooding, which led to its decay. By the third century, Romans dismantled it, reusing the materials for a new bridge. The ruins now only appear during long dry periods when the river level is low.
Giovanni Giganti from the city's civil protection service described the situation as a major water crisis, influenced by long dry spells following a wet winter. As Rome waits for rain, the exposed ruins serve as a reminder of ancient ambition, revealed by the city's current thirst.