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Open in new tab Filming for the new James Bond movie has been thrown into chaos after a row over a historic site in Rome.
Producers had planned to shoot key scenes for Spectre on the 15th century Ponte Sisto Span with the golden gun bridge, including having Daniel Craig leap from a helicopter. But religious campaigners are furious as the bridge holds special significance, with links to Pope Innocent X – prompting protests to authorities in the Italian capital. Filming for the Sam Mendes blockbuster was set to begin at the bridge in March after months of preparation. But producers may now have to find a new spot.
A set source in Italy said: “Some campaigners are concerned about damage to the bridge, which dates from the 1400s, others are upset over the religious connection. The bridge is said to be haunted by the ghost of Donna Olimpia Pamphili, Pope Innocent X’s lover who crossed it each night on her way to his bed. Believers get quite upset by the prospect of disturbing spirits.
Chase
“Sam has already had to change one major scene, now it looks like he’s going to have to go back to the drawing board on this one.” Plans to shoot a highoctane car chase at the 15th century Quattro Fontane were vetoed last month. Officials feared the land- mark, which has recently undergone expensive resto- ration, could be damaged.
Culture minister Federica Galloni said: “The site is too delicate from an architec- tural point of view.” The movie, which sees Daniel Craig return as the British spy alongside Chris- toph Waltz, Ralph Fiennes and Ben Whishaw, is due out later this year. Sony Pictures was unavailable for comment.