A large fire broke out over the weekend at a historical bridge in Rome that was built in England before being transported to the River Tiber in the Italian capital over 150 years ago.

The fire started at the historic Industry Bridge, locally dubbed the ‘Iron Bridge’, over the River Tiber in the Ostiense area of the Italian capital Rome on the night of 2nd October.

The fire, which started shortly before 11 pm, quickly engulfed the metal structure, which has gas and electricity pipes running along its length.

Around 40 firefighters arrived on scene, but they were reportedly delayed by electricity cables that had to be removed before they could begin to put the blaze out.

Firefighters managed to get the fire under control in approximately 40 minutes. While firefighters were still on location, a seven-metre walkway, which was located under the road and was used for utility maintenance, collapsed.

Because of the fire, three local nightclubs in the vicinity had to be evacuated.

Meanwhile, residents reported power outages in the neighbourhoods of Ostiense, Trastevere and Monteverde.

The fire was completely extinguished by 4am and there were no reports of injuries.

According to initial reports, the fire may have started due to a gas cylinder explosion, but an investigation will be carried out to determine the cause.

Local media reported that homeless people often settle under the bridge at night.

Although the bridge did not suffer major structural damage, it will remain closed for a while.

Francesco Notaro, commander of the fire brigade of Rome, said: “Even if the structure itself appears intact, we have already noticed possible deformations. We will need to carry out an inspection and other checks.”

Notaro added: “It is too early to say when it will be possible to reopen the bridge.”

The Industry Bridge was built in England between 1862 and 1863 by a Belgian company as part of a railway line to Civitavecchia in Rome. The bridge was transported in pieces and assembled at the location.

Made out of iron and cast iron arches resting on pylons made of cast iron filled with concrete, the structure was raised in the middle to allow easy access for steamers and military vessels.

In 1911, the bridge was renovated and from then on used by pedestrians and vehicles travelling in both directions.