HASANKEYF BRIDGE

X: 41.410427 Y: 37.714677 Z:485

Since there is no inscription on the bridge in Hasankeyf district center, the exact date of its construction is not known. Based on the stonemason's marks on the bridge and the figures placed on its feet, it is generally accepted that the work may belong to the Artuqids. For this reason, it is also known as the Artuklu Bridge.

In terms of arch span, it is the largest of the bridges built in the Middle Ages. The span between the two middle legs carrying the big arch in the middle is 40.32 meters. The outer coverings of the feet are basalt, the arch springs and tempan walls are made of limestone cut stones and bricks, and the facing stones are interlocked with lead.

It is understood from the remaining traces of the work, which exhibits the plan scheme of the right-angled bridges inclined to both sides, that it has 6 arches. In some sources, it is recorded that the middle part of the largest arch is wooden and can be opened and closed. The bridge was planned not only as a transition element, but also as a temporary shelter (inn) with its rooms of different shapes and sizes between the arches. The second feature of the bridge that makes it important is the figures on its middle legs. These partially destroyed standing figures continue the Central Asian Uyghur painting tradition and exhibit the stances that are the symbols of the Seljuk Age rulers.

The bridge was repaired by Melik Adil in 1349 during the Ayyubid Period. In addition, it is understood from the historical records that it was repaired during the Akkoyunlu period at the end of the 15th century. It is not known when it was destroyed.