Uzunköprü, district in Edirne Province, Turkey
Uzunköprü is a town in Edirne Province, Turkey, built around the Ergene River and known for its massive stone bridge. The structure features multiple arches and stretches for more than a kilometer, forming the central element around which the entire settlement developed.
The stone bridge was constructed in the 1420s under Sultan Murad II, completed between 1426 and 1443, to create a strategic connection for armies and goods. The town itself became the first Turkish settlement in the region of Rumelia and served for centuries as a key junction for trade and travel between the Balkans and the Ottoman heartland.
The name Uzunköprü means 'long bridge' in Turkish and reflects how central this structure is to the town's identity. For residents, the stone bridge serves as a symbol of their heritage and their connection to this crossing point across the centuries.
The best time to visit is spring and autumn when the weather is warm but not too hot, allowing for comfortable outdoor activities. In summer months, early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for walking and exploring, as midday heat is reduced.
The bridge is noted among experts for its remarkable engineering, as the arches and stonework were fitted together without modern mortar and have withstood earthquakes and floods for more than five centuries. This makes the structure a notable example of medieval craftsmanship.
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