Kırkgöz Bridge Bolvadin
A 1150 Byzantine marvel extended by Mimar Sinan, this 57-arch bridge on the Silk Road awaits discovery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Better visibility for photos
Kırkgöz Bridge Bolvadin
Best Time
Better visibility for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 1150 Byzantine marvel extended by Mimar Sinan, this 57-arch bridge on the Silk Road awaits discovery.
"A historical gem with impressive architecture, though in need of better upkeep and access."
🚗 Avoid Google Maps
Follow the Akarçay River from Bolvadin instead of industrial zone routes for a smoother approach.
🐕 Be Wary of Stray Dogs
There are many stray dogs around the bridge. Be cautious and consider viewing from your car if concerned.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.1 · 96 reviews
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 57 Arches
Akarçay River
Marvel at the surviving 57 arches of this ancient bridge, a testament to Byzantine and Ottoman engineering.
Historical Inscriptions
Bridge's head
Discover ancient inscriptions and carvings that whisper tales of its past on the Silk Road.
Mimar Sinan's Extension
Northern section
See the impressive 16th-century expansion by Mimar Sinan, adding to its grandeur and length.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Road Conditions & Access
Preservation & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Avoid Google Maps
Follow the Akarçay River from Bolvadin instead of industrial zone routes for a smoother approach.
🐕 Be Wary of Stray Dogs
There are many stray dogs around the bridge. Be cautious and consider viewing from your car if concerned. +1
🧐 Look for Inscriptions
Don't miss the historical inscriptions and carvings at the bridge's head, offering a glimpse into its past.
💧 Marble Water Outlets
Observe the unique marble water outlets integrated into the bridge's design.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Avoid Google Maps
Follow the Akarçay River from Bolvadin instead of industrial zone routes for a smoother approach.
🐕 Be Wary of Stray Dogs
There are many stray dogs around the bridge. Be cautious and consider viewing from your car if concerned. +1
🧐 Look for Inscriptions
Don't miss the historical inscriptions and carvings at the bridge's head, offering a glimpse into its past.
💧 Marble Water Outlets
Observe the unique marble water outlets integrated into the bridge's design.
🚶♂️ Imagine the Past
Reflect on the caravans and pilgrims who once crossed this historic Silk Road route.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kırkgöz Bridge is a historically significant site, lauded for its impressive Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, including its 57 surviving arches and Mimar Sinan's extensions. However, visitors frequently point out the lack of maintenance, poor road access in some areas, and the presence of stray dogs, which can detract from the experience.
"Yol üzerinde tabelasını görüp girdiğim tarihi bir mekan . Düşünün 40 göz köprü altından şu anda su geçmese de geçmişteki durumunu düşünüyorum. İnsanlar , kervanlar bu köprüyü kullanmışlar . Şimdi gelelim Bolvadine. Kırkgöz ismini bir sürü yerde görebilirsiniz ilçede . Belediye de bu ismi kullanmış ama gelgelelim köprünün durumu iyi değil. Sadece isim kullanarak sahiplenilmez harekete geçmek lazım. Yolunu düzeltin, yollara öncesinde tabela koyun , insanlar burayı görsün. Çevresine oturma alanları oluşturun insanlar dağlara bakıp bu köprünün altından gece suyu ve üzerinden geçenleri düşünsün . Sadece harekete geçin ve yapın."
Metin Sayaroglu
"It was built in 1150 during the Byzantine period. It was later extended and repaired by Mimar Sinan during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent. There are stray dogs around. Be careful, I advise you. There are inscriptions and carvings at the bridge's head. There are a total of 57 intact arches. There are marble water outlets. Finally, this bridge is on the Silk Road. It is also used by pilgrims. I deducted 2 stars for lack of maintenance and lack of proper attention. Stay tuned for more ;)"
Yavuz Selim Kılınç
"There are many stray dogs, be careful, you can also look from the car
It is located outside the Bolvadin district center, on the Akarçay. The bridge is divided into two parts, the north and south. The south part was built by the Byzantine Emperor Manuel I Komne in 1150, with forty eyes, made of marble and basalt stone. The bridge, located on the Surre-Hicaz road, was extended to 64 eyes in the north by Mimar Sinan in the 16th century upon the order of Suleiman the Magnificent, and is 200 meters long. The number of eyes that have survived to the present day is 57. Mimar Sinan had a prayer area built on the bridge and a marble staircase to go down to the water. The prayer area is surrounded by a wall, and the gate passage opening to the bridge is recorded in the inventory.
Basalt, andesite and marble reused stones were used on the bridge. The arches of the bridge are wider and have pointed vaults in the middle, and are smaller and flatter towards the ends. The bridge has a rubble filling with cut stone, and the sides have a single row of railings with rectangular blocks. On the bridge piers, architectural pieces from the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods, and even reused materials such as gravestones, are encountered.
Source: Recorded on 12.03.2013 from the book "Anadolu'nun Kiliti AFYON"."
KoSeKu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Many visitors advise against using Google Maps directions through the industrial zone, as the road can be poor. A recommended alternative is to follow the Akarçay River from Bolvadin.
Information on public transport accessibility is limited. It's generally recommended to visit by private vehicle for easier access to the bridge's location outside the town center.
The bridge is located approximately two kilometers outside the town center of Bolvadin, situated on the Akarçay River.
Some visitors mention seeing signs for the bridge, but improved signage and road maintenance are suggested for better visitor experience.
While some report smooth roads, others mention poor conditions, especially if using industrial zone routes. Following the river is often suggested for a better drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of an entrance fee for Kırkgöz Bridge, suggesting it is freely accessible to the public.
As an historical site, Kırkgöz Bridge is likely accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for better viewing and safety.
No advance booking is required as there is no admission fee. You can visit the bridge at your convenience.
Yes, the bridge is a historical site with Byzantine and Ottoman architectural elements, indicating it is a protected monument.
While no specific restrictions are mentioned, visitors should be mindful of the historical nature of the site and the presence of stray dogs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The bridge has 57 surviving arches, but visitors note a lack of maintenance and upkeep, with suggestions for improvements like better roads and seating areas.
Currently, there are no reported facilities such as restrooms or cafes at the bridge site. Visitors should come prepared.
Built in 1150 by the Byzantines and extended by Mimar Sinan in the 16th century, it was a crucial part of the Silk Road and used by pilgrims.
While the bridge has surviving arches, its current condition might affect the ability to walk across it safely. It's advisable to assess the situation upon arrival.
You can observe reused stones from Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods, pointed arches, marble water outlets, and remnants of Mimar Sinan's additions like a prayer area.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire length of the bridge with its multiple arches offers great photographic opportunities. The riverbanks can also provide scenic perspectives.
There are no specific regulations mentioned regarding drone usage. However, always check local rules and be respectful of the historical site.
Daytime offers the best light for capturing the details of the bridge and its surroundings. Golden hour might offer beautiful light if accessible.
Look for the architectural details like the pointed arches, marble water outlets, and any visible inscriptions or reused historical stones.
Be mindful of the stray dogs in the area, and ensure you have a clear path to set up your shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit