Malabadi Bridge, Medieval stone bridge near Silvan, Turkey

Malabadi Bridge is a stone structure that spans approximately 150 meters across the Batman River with pointed arches rising to about 19 meters high. The bridge features multiple arches supported by sturdy piers, creating a design that distributes weight evenly across the span.

The bridge was built between 1147 and 1155 under the Turkmen ruler Temür-Tash of the Artuqid dynasty. It served as the only crossing point over the Batman River for centuries until the mid-1900s when a modern road bridge was constructed upstream.

The name Malabadi derives from Bad, founder of the Marwanids, and means "house of Bad" in Kurdish. The bridge's original name was Akarman, as recorded in medieval sources and its inscription. Two small rooms beside the main arch sheltered caravans and travelers, especially in winter, and were also used by bridge guards.

The bridge is easily accessible near Silvan, reached via local roads without requiring special permits or equipment. Plan your visit during morning or late afternoon hours when lighting is better and the weather remains cooler.

The bridge incorporates smaller auxiliary arches into its design that function as flood openings to help reduce water pressure during heavy flow periods. This practical engineering solution allowed the structure to withstand rapid increases in river levels.