Old Bridge, Stone arch bridge in Svilengrad, Bulgaria.
This Ottoman-era stone bridge spans 295 meters across the Maritsa River with multiple arches, featuring a 6-meter width and an 18-meter longest span that demonstrates classical architectural engineering techniques from the 16th century.
Commissioned by Ottoman vizier Çoban Mustafa Pasha and designed by renowned architect Mimar Sinan, the bridge was completed in 1529 during the reign of Sultan Suleiman I as part of a larger infrastructure complex including caravanserai and mosque facilities.
The bridge represents Ottoman architectural influence in Bulgaria and served as a meeting point for traders, travelers, and locals throughout centuries, symbolizing cultural exchange and connectivity between different regions of the former empire.
Visitors can walk across the 295-meter stone structure year-round to enjoy views of the Maritsa River, though caution is advised during wet conditions when sections may become slippery on the ancient stone surface.
Despite Ottoman forces attempting to destroy it during the 1912 First Balkan War to prevent Bulgarian troop advancement, the bridge sustained only minor damage to a few stones, demonstrating its exceptional structural integrity.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
Edirne Palace
31.3 km
Villa Armira
30.9 km
Treaty of Lausanne Monument and Museum
30.1 km
Ivaylovgrad Reservoir
24 km
Sultan Bayezid II Complex
30.6 km
Bayezid II Külliye Health Museum
30.5 km
Gluhite kamani
20.3 km
Thracian tomb near Mezek
8.5 km
Bukelon Fortress
30.8 km
Mezek Fortress
9.8 km
Wiszegrad
31.2 km
Scheynovets
14.9 km
Mikri Doksipara Zoni tomb
28.1 km
Castris Rubris
20 km
Aterenski most
30.3 km
Gazi Mihal Bridge
30.7 km
Природозащитен център „Източни Родопи“
30.2 km
Yalnız Göz Bridge
30.9 km
Saint Panteleimon Church, Mihalich
21.2 km
Ivaylovgrad monastery
28.8 km
Historic Museum Ivailovgrad
26.7 km
Царският долмен
28.6 km
Nesting of endangered diurnal raptors
29.4 km
Големият кайряк
30.5 km
Senoklas
28.2 km
Кралимарков камък
13.5 km
Hıdırlık Redoubt
28.5 km
Thracian tomb near Sheinovets peak
14.9 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes