This is the 15242nd most frequent German word.
umspannte
"Umspannte" means "encompassed" or "spanned" in English.
The word 'umspannte' here is used to describe something extending or reaching across something, in this case the bridge across the river.
Die alte Brücke umspannte den breiten Fluss.
The old bridge spanned the wide river.
'Umspannte' in this context expresses the concept of encompassing a time period.
Seine Erzählung umspannte viele Jahre voller Abenteuer.
His narration spanned many years full of adventures.
Here, 'umspannte' is used to indicate inclusion and coverage of a variety of subjects.