The roman bridge of Sant’Antioco (Sardinia, Italy): the analysis of masonries and characterization of materials

This article is part of an ongoing study dealing with the analysis of the bridge of the ancient city of Sant’Antioco. It is an architectural specialty dating back most probably to Roman times followed by many other interventions during the following centuries, and represents a piece of art of a unique road net of its kind, both for its function in connecting not only the opposite banks of a river but also a small island with the dry land. Additionally, its architectural design does not have any analogies in other similar designs. It has been studied following an interdisciplinary approach, with the aim of combining the architectural-constructive knowledge with methods used in geologic and geochemical investigations. Specifically, the purpose of this research is to gain a deeper understanding of the architectural elements under investigation, which is essential for correct and qualified restoration and conservation.