Malnate bridge
There is one work, with its daring yet elegant line, that has always been emblematic of Ferrovie Nord: the Malnate bridge which crosses the Olona river valley at Gurone. The original structure was built between 1883 and 1884 by the Naples-based firm, Ditta Cottrau. The daring work was built as a three-span metal girder deck bridge resting on two intermediate iron lattice piers. The only brickwork sections were the foundation plinths of the pillars and the two abutments supporting the ends.
This great work was opened on 11 April 1885. During the 1920s, when serious discussion about the possibility of electrifying the whole Ferrovie Nord network began, it was decided to replace the old iron bridge with a new masonry structure which would ensure greater stability given the increased axial weight of the new vehicles. Construction of the new bridge was carried out between 1927 and 1928: it was moved a few metres upstream (the abutments of the iron bridge are still visible next to the bridge) and has five spans, supported by four slender pillars which lend a graceful air to the whole structure, accentuated by the openings for weight reduction situated on the spandrels of the arches. In just eight months the new bridge was ready, and it was opened on 5 May 1928.
Gallery
A postcard from the early 1900s with a consist travelling over the bridge. This epic work, a symbol of progress for Italian industry of the time, ultimately cost “only”... 250,000 lire! 
Two passers-by admire the Malnate iron bridge. Built in 1885 to a design by engineer Alfredo Cottrau, the bridge allows passage over the Olona river, spanning the valley with its 220-metre length (around 165 metres of iron latticework 4.30m wide and 7.30m high) at a height of 59 metres from the valley below. 
Another charming postcard dated 1903 showing “The Great Bridge” at Malnate 
Construction of the new bridge at Malnate, seen from the station of Malnate Olona in the Valmorea, 1927. Construction of a new bridge became necessary as consists became increasingly heavy, which would have compromised the structural integrity of the bridge. The photo clearly shows the “lift” which was used to lower the concrete sections into place. 
Original technical drawing of the new bridge, included in the stability report dated 28 April 1928. The new bridge was built in only eight months between 1927 and 1928, using 17,000 cubic metres of concrete and 4000 cubic metres of timber for reinforcement. It features five large spans, each with a diameter of 30 metres, and seven circular openings. 
The new bridge at Malnate, newly finished and opened on the 5 May 1928, makes a fine display. Note the track of the Castellanza-Valmorea line under the arch on the left. 
Striking view of the bridge spans from the Olona river 
Malnate bridge in a recent photo, with workers on the job