Karelsky Bridge, Stone bridge in Sortavala, Russia.
Karelsky Bridge is a stone bridge that spans the Vakkolahti Bay, connecting two sections of Sortavala on either side. The granite structure measures 11 meters wide and extends over a distance suitable for both pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
The structure was built between 1932 and 1933 to improve connections within the city. During World War II, Soviet forces damaged the northern section in 1941 as they retreated from the advancing enemy.
The bridge connects two city districts and serves as a daily crossing point for residents and visitors, making it central to local life. Its presence shapes how people experience the waterfront and move through different neighborhoods.
The site is accessible year-round and offers good views of the bay from both sides. It is wise to wear comfortable shoes, as the stone surface can become slippery when wet.
The granite used to build this bridge came from quarries on the nearby island of Riekkalansaari, where local craftspeople applied traditional stone-cutting methods. This local sourcing made the bridge a reflection of regional engineering skills and self-sufficiency.
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