Kemere Bridge

Kemere Bridge is a historical Roman-era bridge located in the Black Sea Region region of Türkiye, in the Amasra district of Bartın province, spanning place area. This single-arch, round-arched stone bridge connects the Sormagir Neighborhood of Amasra with the Boztepe-Zindan Neighborhood and was constructed as part of the Roman road network. Believed to have been built during the reign of Roman Emperor Claudius, the bridge is one of Amasra’s most significant historical symbols.

Night view of Kemere Bridge. (Republic of Türkiye Bartın Governorate)

History and Features

It is believed that Kemere Bridge was constructed during the Roman period using large rock blocks. The bridge is 5.89 meters wide and 26.69 meters long. A faint relief depicting seven soldiers engaged in spear combat from the Roman-Pontic Wars is located at the base of the bridge. As a continuation of the Amasra Kuşkayasi Road Monument, the bridge is counted among the important historical monuments surviving from the Roman era.

During the Byzantine period, the bridge underwent repairs in the 8th and 9th centuries. Additionally, in the 9th century, the Byzantines reinforced it to connect the Sormagir Castle on Boztepe with the Zindan Castle in Amasra.

In earlier times, the underside of the bridge was covered with pebbles, where boat and boat maintenance and repair activities took place. These activities contributed over time to the development of boat tours as tourist attractions. However, due to the water current, the bridge faced a risk of collapse in the 2010s. This situation on bridge was restored and placed under protection by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in 2016. During the restoration, a 30 cm diameter drainage pipe located in the west section was relocated outside, rendering that part nonfunctional. Additionally, repair work was carried out between 2013 and 2014 by the 15th Region Directorate of Highways.

Location and Function

The bridge connects Amasra’s Zindan Island with the mainland, providing access via two separate passages. Constructed to manage the Small Harbor Area’s current and maintain its cleanliness, the bridge has held historical and commercial significance throughout its history.

Architectural Features

• Type: Stone arch bridge
• Arch Shape: Round, single-span
• Material: Cut stone and large rock blocks
• Dimensions: 5.89 m width, 26.69 m length
• Cultural Influence: Roman and Byzantine
• Condition: Accessible, restored

Current Status

Thanks to recent restoration efforts, Kemere Bridge has been integrated into tourism. Strengthened against natural threats such as Soil slippage, the bridge is preserved as an important component of Amasra’s historical and cultural heritage.