Landmark bridge to undergo €2 million restoration.

Florence is to restore the world-famous Ponte Vecchio bridge in the first comprehensive restoration of the Italian landmark which dates to 1345.

The €2 million project to restore the bridge to its former glory will be split evenly between the city and the historic Marchesi Antinori winemakers.

The aristocratic Florentine family is contributing to the restoration through Italy’s Art Bonus – a tax credit equal to 65 per cent of charitable contributions made in favour of public cultural heritage – to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its iconic Tignanello wine.

Florence mayor Dario Nardella on Thursday said that the project would “forever link two international symbols and consolidate the relationship between the great families of the city and its historical-artistic heritage.”

Although the bridge has undergone regular maintenance and renovations over the years, including after the devastating 1966 flood, it has never been subject to a “restoration of this technical complexity,” the mayor told reporters.

In a statement the city said that although the bridge does not present any structural problems and is “firmly anchored”, it is suffering from “ailments” related to exposure to the elements and the constant flow of the river Arno down through the ages.

“The history of our family has always been closely intertwined with Florence since the 13th century” – stated Piero Antinori, honorary president of Marchesi Antinori – “The city has given us so much over the centuries, which is why we are particularly pleased to be able to be part of this important project.”

The restoration will include the removal of weeds, lichen, algae and stains, filling in cracks and fractures and reconstructing missing sections.

Work will also be carried out to restore and seal the coats of arms, parapet, coping, piers and arches on the structure which was the only bridge in Florence spared from destruction in world war two.

The restoration project is to begin in October this year and will continue in stages until summer 2026.