Seven-Eyed Bridge

On Gözlü Köprü is a historical bridge located over the Tigris River in the Sur district of Diyarbakır. Also known as Dicle Köprüsü, Silvan Köprüsü and Mervani Köprüsü, this structure is commonly referred to by the public as “On Gözlü Köprü” due to its ten arches. Situated south of the city approximately three kilometers from Mardin Gate, the bridge serves as an important transit point connecting the city center with settlements to the east and north. Throughout history it has suffered various damages and undergone multiple repairs.

^{On Gözlü Köprü (}Diyarbakır Valiliği⁾

According to the inscription on the bridge, the structure was built between 1065 and 1067 during the rule of the Mervanids. A two-line floral Kufic inscription located between the arches and parapet on the southern façade states that it was commissioned by Kadı Ebü’l-Hasan Abdülvâhid during the reign of Nizâmüddevle Nasr of the Mervanids, under the architect Yusuf, son of Ubeyd. However, some researchers argue that this inscription records a renovation and that the bridge was originally constructed much earlier, likely in antiquity. While sources mention the possibility that the bridge was built during the reign of Emperor Anastasius I in the 6th century, its exact original construction date remains unknown.

The bridge has been destroyed and rebuilt numerous times throughout history. It was damaged during the siege of Diyarbakır by Byzantine Emperor John Tzimisces in 974. Subsequent repair efforts were initiated during the caliphate of Hisham ibn Abd al-Malik (742–743) but were never completed. The final major construction and renovation, which forms the basis of the structure seen today, is generally accepted to have been carried out by the Mervanids between 1065 and 1067. The most recent major restoration took place in 1899–1900.

^{On Gözlü Köprü (}Diyarbakır Valiliği⁾

On Gözlü Köprü is constructed entirely of cut basalt stone and spans the Tigris River on ten segmented arches. Its length ranges between 172 and 180 meters, while its width varies: between 5.45 and 6.24 meters in the first five arches, and between 9.69 and 10.20 meters from the fifth arch onward. The arches are pointed in form, with the central arch being the widest. On the upstream side, triangular cutwaters reduce the force of the current, while on the downstream side, rectangular supporting walls are present. These walls are curved from east to south to accommodate the river’s swift flow and the topography of the terrain.

The bridge was built using lime mortar and rubble infill, with cut basalt stones of varying dimensions laid using a staggered technique. The parapets are made of rubble and cut stone. At the end of the inscription on the southern façade, a lion relief carved in profile, a motif commonly found in Artukid and Seljuk architecture, is present. Similar examples can be found on the Harput Gate and Mardin Gate of Diyarbakır’s city walls.

^{On Gözlü Köprü (}Diyarbakır Valiliği⁾

The bridge has undergone various repairs throughout history, but recent restoration efforts have partially damaged its original fabric. Concrete and asphalt paving have disrupted its visual integrity and material harmony. Nevertheless, restoration work carried out in 2008 aimed to preserve the bridge’s architectural coherence. After restoration, the bridge was closed to vehicular traffic and transformed into a social space for the local community and a popular destination for tourists.

^{On Gözlü Köprü (}Diyarbakır Valiliği⁾

On Gözlü Köprü is more than an architectural structure; it is a vital symbol of Diyarbakır’s cultural heritage. The bridge and its surroundings have been reorganized as a living space for intangible cultural heritage. It has become a site where traditional events such as Hıdırellez take place, where wishes are cast into the river, folk dances are performed, photographs are taken on special occasions, and evening gatherings accompanied by regional music are held. The bridge also serves as a backdrop for local legends and stories; for instance, the melancholic love tale of Suzi and Adil is frequently recalled by the local population and closely associated with the bridge.

Restaurants and tea gardens along the banks of the Tigris River are preferred recreational areas for residents, particularly during summer evenings, for relaxation and socializing. The symbolic value of the bridge has been preserved over many years through restoration and environmental planning. However, it is also emphasized that continuous maintenance and attention are required to ensure the transmission of this cultural heritage to future generations.

On Gözlü Köprü continues to exist today as a unique structure reflecting Diyarbakır’s historical, architectural, and cultural richness.