Malabadi Bridge

Malabadi Bridge

Commissioned in 1155 by Temür-Tash of Mardin, the Malabadi Bridge spans the Batman River near Silvan in southeastern Turkey. The bridge's construction date is recorded on a commemorative inscription at its eastern end.

Malabadi Bridge

The Malabadi Bridge is an architectural and engineering marvel of the 12th century and is historically, symbolically, and aesthetically significant. At 281.67 meters long and 7.15 meters wide, it is the longest stone arch bridge in the world, with a pointed arch that measures 40.86 meters across and a height up to its keystone of 24.50 meters above water level. The bridge comprises five arches, including one main arch in the center and two side arches on each bank. The approach road is at an angle to the river, resulting in five breaks along the arc.

Restored between the late 12th century and early 20th century, the Malabadi Bridge was historically the only bridge crossing the Batman River and remained in continuous use until a new road bridge upstream opened in the 1950s, leading to the closure of the older bridge to automobile traffic.

The main span of the bridge is elevated 1.20 meters above the deep part of the riverbed, crossing perpendicular to the river. In recognition of its exceptional design and engineering, the Malabadi Bridge was inscribed on Turkey's Tentative list of World Heritage Sites in 2016, serving as a testament to human ingenuity in overcoming obstacles.