The “Origins Bridge” project, envisioned as a hub for research laboratories and science popularization through multimedia installations, exhibition rooms and bookshops, will be coordinated by the higher education institutions Scuola Normale Superiore (project manager), Sant’Anna School, and University of Pisa, in cooperation with the National Council for Research, and Pisa Council authority .

The project, after the completion of the feasibility concept study conducted by the Scuola Normale Superiore, was approved by the local authorities Autorità di Bacino, Genio civile, and Soprintendenza ai beni culturali and it is now considered for implementation by potential public and private investors. The expected outcome for an eco-friendly bridge is to ensure sustainable provision of urban infrastructure services and improved urban environments in the east area viale delle Piagge - lungarno Guadalongo. The bridge will improve pedestrian links across the river creating a new route and designing a place for cultural activities describing the origins of the universe and attracting visitors to the left side of the Arno.

“We need to be sure that we meet our world’s environmental challenges while ensuring economic prosperity – said Pierdomenico Perata, rector of Sant’Anna School – Our goal is to balance economic growth in the river Arno east area with improved sustainable practices. I think Italy must not assume cultural heritage to be static and address the challenge of meeting continuously changing cultural needs, as all European countries do, in ways that are sustainable and environmentally compatible”.

“In determining specific project plans– said Vincenzo Barone, director of Scuola Normale Superiore – we thought other members in our community would be interested in the construction of the Origins bridge. Working together, we will have a better chance of getting financial resources and moving the project forward. As a joint Research Centre, our shared agreement and partnership will promote a diversity of perspective, skills and knowledge to achieve common goals”.

“This project aims to be an innovative research infrastructure – said Andrea Ferrara, professor of cosmology at Scuola Normale Superiore and the Origins Bridge project coordinator - to support cultural heritage in Pisa and in Italy. The innovative use of cultural heritage can be an investment opportunity for Pisa and our country. We believe that culture and science education can increase economic growth and effectively contribute to a sustainable development of European cultural landscapes”.

Cover photo: “Origins Bridge” 3D rendering