Dicle Bridge, Stone bridge over Tigris River in Diyarbakır, Turkey
Dicle Bridge is a 172-meter arch structure made of black basalt stone that crosses the Tigris River using ten arches with varying widths. The passage narrows and widens along its length due to the different dimensions of each arch.
This structure was built in 1065 during the Marwanid period with inscriptions documenting its construction under Judge Abu al-Hassan Abdul Wahid and architect Ubayd. The project reflects the period's focus on developing regional infrastructure.
The bridge displays stonemason marks and a carved lion relief on its southern side, reflecting the regional craftsmanship traditions of medieval times. These details show how local artisans signed their work on the structure.
The bridge sits about 3 kilometers from central Diyarbakır and serves as a main connection to the Bağıvar district and nearby villages. The route follows an ancient road that remains clearly marked and easy to navigate.
The structure features pyramidal-capped breakwaters on its northern face that redirect the river flow and protect the bridge. This engineering approach shows how builders managed water forces using medieval techniques.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
