A volunteer team in Imbersago has put back into service a hand‑operated ferry originally sketched by Leonardo da Vinci in the 1400s. The vessel now shuttles commuters across the Adda River, offering a low‑tech alternative to the traffic‑jammed road between the provinces of Lecco and Bergamo.

The Da Vinci Ferry’s 500‑Year‑Old Design Re‑Enacted in Imbersago

The crossing uses a wooden craft built to the exact specifications Leonardo drew in 1485 , according to the local volunteer group that manages it. Workers such as Venanzio Lavelli pull the ferry across the river by hand, replicating the Renaissance engineer’s original propulsion method.

Traffic Relief on the Lecco‑Bergamo Corridor

Officials say the revived service eases congestion on the nearby highway, which has seen daily bottlenecks during rush hour. by moving even a modest number of commuters across the Adda, the ferry reduces vehicle miles traveled and cuts emissions, a point highlighted by the volunteers.

Heritage Preservation Meets Sustainable Mobility

Beyond its practical role, the ferry serves as a living museum piece.. An effigy of Leonardo hangs on the dock, underscoring the community’s intent to celebrate the master’s engineering legacy while promoting eco‑friendly transport, as reported by the project’s organizers.

Who Is Funding the Revival?

The restoration was financed primarily through private donations and a modest grant from the regional cultural heritage fund , according to the volunteer association’s statement. no municipal budget was allocated, leaving the operation dependent on continued community support.

Unanswered Questions About Long‑Term Viability

It remains unclear whether the ferry can sustain year‑round service during winter floods, and whether additional funding will be secured to expand capacity. The volunteers have not disclosed any formal agreement with local authorities for futurre upgrades.