On Gözlü Köprü
Last Updated: 04/10/2026
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- Other Names: On Gözlü Köprü (On Gözlü Köprü / Pira Dehderî), Silvan Bridge.
- Location: Located near the Sur district of Diyarbakır, spanning the Tigris River.
- Construction Date: Around 1065.
- Period: Marwanid period (990–1085).
Architect: Yusuf (son of Ubeyd Sancaroğlu), according to the inscription.
On Gözlü Köprü(Diyarbakır Governorate)
🧱 Architectural Features
- Structure Type: Stone arch bridge.
- Material: Volcanic basalt stones, abundant in the region.
- Number of Arches: Ten-arched (ten arches), hence its popular local name, On Gözlü Köprü.
- Length: Approximately 178 m.
- Width: Approximately 5.6 m.
- Largest Arch Span: Approximately 14.7 m.
The piers and arch series of the bridge were constructed to withstand the rapid flow of the river. Traditional stone masonry techniques were employed, with rubble and basalt cladding used in the infill sections.
📜 Inscription and Decorations
- A Kufic inscription on the southern face provides information regarding the bridge’s construction date and architect. Culture Portal.
- Near the inscription, decorative elements such as a lion relief are present; similar motifs appear on the gates of Diyarbakır’s city walls.
🕰️ History and Restoration
- According to the inscription, the precise construction date is read as 1064–65, though some researchers consider it a restoration inscription and suggest the bridge may be older.
- The bridge underwent major restoration at the end of the 19th century (1899–1900).
On Gözlü Köprü(Culture Portal)
🚶♂️ Current Status
- Closed to modern vehicular traffic and adapted for pedestrian and tourist use.
- Its surroundings are designated as areas for relaxation, scenic viewing, and photography for visitors.
📍 Visit Tips
When visiting Diyarbakır, plan to include the Sur district and the Tigris River valley in your itinerary.
Nearby, along the riverbank, you will find tea gardens and local food stalls.
