Eğri Köprü - Sivas

Eğri Köprü is a historic stone bridge located within the boundaries of Kardeşler Neighborhood in the southeastern part of Sivas Province, spanning the Kızılırmak River. Approximately three kilometers from the city center, this bridge is regarded as an important architectural heritage of the Seljuk period. It attracts attention both for its functional role in transportation and its architectural form, and derives its name from its distinctive geometric shape.

Eğri Köprü was constructed using finely cut stone. The bridge is approximately 179.60 meters long and 4.55 meters wide and consists of a total of 18 pointed arches. Among these arches, there are variations in span and height, indicating that the structure was designed to conform to the topography of the riverbed.

The most distinctive structural feature of the bridge is its gradual bend to the left at approximately a 45-degree angle from its midpoint. For this reason, it is commonly known as “Eğri Köprü.” The bridge extends in a straight line over six arches, then curves to continue with the remaining arches. This curved configuration gives the bridge a unique architectural character that distinguishes it from similar structures.

Tajamar (triangular protrusions designed to deflect water flow) located at the base of each arch were constructed to regulate water currents and protect the foundation of the structure. Additionally, stone parapet railings on both sides of the bridge feature openings that allow for drainage of rainwater.

^{Eğri Köprü} (Culture Portal)

The exact date of construction of Eğri Köprü is unknown; however, it is believed to have been built during the Seljuk period. No inscriptions confirming this dating have survived to the present day. Over the centuries, the bridge has undergone various restoration works.

Documents relating to a restoration carried out in 1807–1808 (H.1217) are preserved at the Sivas Museum. It is also recorded that during the 19th century, the structure was renovated under the governorship of Halil Rıfat Paşa and Kangal Ağa Abdurrahman Paşa. Most recently, in 2006, the General Directorate of Highways undertook a comprehensive restoration; as a result of these works, vehicular traffic was prohibited and the bridge was opened exclusively for pedestrian use.

^{Eğri Köprü} (Culture Portal)

Eğri Köprü was officially registered as a first-degree monumental heritage site on 21 January 1983 and placed under protection. Today, the bridge is open exclusively to pedestrian traffic. Both its architectural integrity has been preserved and its surroundings have been cleaned, making it accessible for tourism and cultural purposes. Due to its proximity to the center of Sivas, the structure has become an integral part of the city’s cultural identity and attracts interest from both domestic and international visitors.

^{Eğri Köprü} (Culture Portal)