Eğri Köprü - Sivas

Eğri Köprü is a historical stone bridge located within the boundaries of Kardeşler Neighborhood, southeast of Sivas. The bridge spans the Kızılırmak River and is a highly valuable structure from the Seljuk period. It is situated only 3 kilometres from the city center. The bridge derives its name from its curved structure; unlike other bridges, it is not straight but bends approximately 45 degrees to the left from its midpoint. This feature makes it both striking and an original example of architectural design.

Architectural Features

Eğri Köprü is constructed from precisely cut stone blocks. It is 179 metres long and 4.5 metres wide. The bridge features 18 pointed arches, each differing in height and span. These variations demonstrate the skilled planning of the structure in relation to the slope of the riverbed. At the base of the piers, triangular stone projections (tajamar) reduce the speed of the current and protect the structure from erosion. Between the parapet stones, openings for draining rainwater are present, enabling the bridge to remain structurally sound for many years.

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History and Restorations

The exact date of the bridge’s construction is unknown, but it is believed to date from the Seljuk period.

Over time, it has undergone several repairs:

• Documents confirming repairs carried out in 1807–1808 are preserved at the Sivas Museum.
• During the 19th century, restoration work was conducted under the governorship of Halil Rıfat Paşa and Kangal Ağa Abdurrahman Paşa.
• In 2006, a comprehensive restoration was carried out by the General Directorate of Highways.
• Following this restoration, the bridge was closed to vehicular traffic and opened exclusively for pedestrian use.

Protection and Current Status

Eğri Köprü was officially registered as a first-degree monumental heritage site on 21 January 1983.

Today, the bridge is open only to pedestrians, and its surroundings have been cleaned and landscaped.

Visitors can take photographs, walk across the bridge, and experience its historical atmosphere.

The bridge is one of the most beautiful structures that narrate the history of Sivas.