Kanuni Sultan Suleiman bridge, Stone arch bridge in Büyükçekmece, Turkey
The Kanuni Sultan Suleiman Bridge is a stone arch crossing in Büyükçekmece that extends 635 meters over the lake where it meets the Marmara Sea. Twenty-eight arches made of limestone blocks support the construction, which is currently under restoration and accommodates both pedestrians and vehicles.
Construction started in 1566 during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent and was completed the following year under Selim II. The architect Mimar Sinan directed the project, which created an important trade route between Istanbul and Europe.
The crossing takes its name from a ruler who expanded Ottoman territory to its greatest extent, and today connects both shores of the lake for local residents and travelers. Pedestrians regularly use the overpass to enjoy views of the water and surrounding hills.
Visitors can walk across the overpass to experience the perspective of the lake and adjacent structures. The width of about 7 meters allows several people to walk in both directions at the same time, though restoration work may temporarily limit access to certain areas.
This overpass is the only structure among all projects by Mimar Sinan that carries his personal signature. He declared it his masterpiece among hundreds of mosques, bridges, and other constructions he designed during his career.
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