Değirmendere Bridge is a 137-meter three-arched stone bridge built in 1891 in Ortahisar, Trabzon, which remains active for pedestrian and vehicle traffic today.
Değirmendere Bridge takes its name from the stream it crosses. Built from ashlar masonry in 1891, it was funded by the donations of Şükrü and Osman Efendi of the Nemlizade family. Previously, a four-arched, pointed-arch Ottoman bridge stood at this location. Following its destruction, today's three-arched structure with a flat deck and depressed arches was built in its place. One arch on the eastern side of the original bridge remains standing, and there is a relief arch on the western side.
The bridge measures 137 meters long and 5.5 meters wide. Featuring a stone-paved deck, cutwaters, and pier foundations, it showcases the engineering details of its era; records indicate that its project was drawn by the Chief Municipal Engineer of the time. The bridge is not merely decorative; it remains open to active traffic today. It stands as part of daily life on the route between central Trabzon and Karadeniz Technical University.
Story of the Bridge
Before the current bridge, a four-arched Ottoman bridge with pointed arches spanned this location. When that bridge collapsed, Şükrü and Osman Efendi of the Nemlizade family donated 2,000 Liras—a substantial amount at the time—in 1891 to construct a new one. Built from ashlar stone, the new bridge emerged with a three-arched, flat-decked, and depressed-arch design. The fourth arch on the eastern side of the original bridge survived without collapsing and has reached the present day. If you look closely while visiting, you can spot this historical detail.
Architectural Details and Photography
The bridge's cutwaters and pier foundations—projecting stone structures that direct the flow of water—are quite impressive. These details are clearly visible in photos taken from downstream. The deck is paved with stone, while the railings were replaced with metal over time. The surviving eastern arch from the old bridge highlights historical layers and adds visual interest. Afternoon hours, when sunlight hits the stream, bring out the texture of the stonework best.
How to Get There
The bridge is located on the road connecting the Trabzon Bus Terminal to Karadeniz Technical University. It is easily reachable from the city center via bus lines 115, 119B, 120, and 121, or by minibus (dolmuş). The closest stop is 2 Nolu Bostancı, just a 3-minute walk from the bridge. For those traveling by private vehicle, clear signage is available along the main highway toward Yomra.
Best Time to Visit
The bridge is outdoors and can be viewed at any time of day. During rainy periods, the swelling of the Değirmendere stream makes the scenery beneath the bridge even more dynamic. Those wishing to avoid heavy traffic may prefer visiting in the early morning or on weekday afternoons.
How Much Time to Spend
15 to 20 minutes is sufficient to see and photograph the bridge. It works well as a quick stop to combine with other highlights in central Trabzon, such as Atatürk Pavilion, Boztepe, or the road leading up to Sümela Monastery.
Things to Keep in Mind
The bridge remains open to active vehicle traffic; exercise caution regarding traffic while walking or taking photos. Due to limited sidewalk width, visitors with children should hold hands. The uneven stone paving may not offer a suitable surface for wheelchairs or strollers.
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