Taskopru Bridge
Taskopru Bridge in Adana, Turkey
Taskopru is a historic stone bridge over the Seyhan River in the center of Adana. Its name in Turkish literally means "stone bridge." The structure is usually dated to the Roman period, and it is often mentioned among the oldest bridges of this type that retained practical use for a very long time.
The exact date of construction is unknown, but the bridge was probably built in the 2nd century AD and was then repeatedly repaired during Byzantine, Seljuk, Ottoman, and later periods. Thanks to its location on an important route through Cilicia, it long served as a key crossing and connected different parts of the city and the region.
Originally, the bridge is believed to have had 21 arches, although today 14 are visible above the water and in open sections. The others are hidden under embankments and later changes in the riverbank level. The length of the structure is usually given as about 310 meters, and the width as about 11.4 meters. Different parts of the bridge date from different periods, so its appearance shows traces of numerous reconstructions.
Since 2007, Taskopru has been closed to car traffic and used as a pedestrian bridge. For tourists, it is a convenient place to walk over the Seyhan, examine the old stonework, and see one of Adana's most recognizable historic landmarks in an urban setting rather than in a museum space.
Taskopru Bridge on the map
Taskopru Bridge and a walk through central Adana
A pedestrian bridge over the Seyhan in the historic city center.
A Roman crossing over the Seyhan in the very center of Adana
Today, you can walk calmly across the bridge and examine its structure from close range. The stone blocks, arched spans, and differences in the masonry that appeared after numerous repairs are especially noticeable. The bridge offers views of the Seyhan River, the embankment, and the central districts of Adana.
Taskopru is interesting not only as an ancient engineering structure, but also as part of everyday urban life. It provides a convenient way to cross between the banks, and a walk here can be combined with exploring the historic center. The bridge is especially impressive from the riverbank or from nearby sections of the embankment, where its length and the line of its arches are clearly visible.
Nearby are the Sabanci Central Mosque, Merkez Park, and the Adana Archaeology Museum, so a visit to the bridge can easily be included in a route through the city center. The easiest way to get here is on foot or by taxi from the central districts of Adana; the bridge is located by the Seyhan River and is well known to local residents.
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