Ekmekçizade Ahmet Paşa Köprüsü, Edirne'de Tunca Nehri üzerinde 1608-1615 arası Sedefkar Mehmet Ağa tarafından inşa edilen, 136 metre uzunluğundaki 10 kemerli Osmanlı köprüsüdür.
The Tunca Bridge is actually named after Ekmekçizade Ahmet Paşa. The treasurer of the period had this bridge built over the Tunca River between 1608-1615. Its architect was Sedefkar Mehmet Aga, who also designed the Sultanahmet Mosque. The bridge consists of 10 arches standing on 11 pillars, with the largest arch opening measuring 15 meters. Total length is 136.30 meters, width 6.90 meters.
Over time, half of the bridge and the inscribed kiosk in the middle were destroyed by floods. What you see today is the result of comprehensive restoration work carried out in 2007-2008. The stones were recut according to the original design. Built from ashlar stone, it is a solid example of classical Ottoman bridge architecture.
The bridge remains open to vehicular and pedestrian traffic. So it is not only a structure to look at but also one to walk across. Due to its proximity to where the Meric and Tunca rivers meet, the shadows of the arches falling on the water in the evening light are visually striking for photography purposes.
Guide's Note
Best Time to Visit
The bridge can be visited year-round as it is in the open air. During summer months, the midday heat can cause reflection on the stone surface, so early morning or evening hours are more comfortable. In autumn when the Tunca's water level drops, the areas under the arches are also clearly visible. This is a separate advantage for photography.
How to Get There
The bridge can be easily reached by a walk starting from the Selimiye Mosque or Eski Mosque area in Edirne city center; the walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Those coming by car can park around the bridge and walk to see the structure. For those coming from outside the city, shuttle services or taxis are available from Edirne bus station to the city center.
Location in the City
The bridge is located over the Tunca River in Talatpasa Mahallesi. Nearby are the point where the Meric and Tunca Rivers meet, 270 meters to the southwest; and the Edirne Great Synagogue, 450 meters to the northwest. It is possible to combine these three stops in a single walk.
How Much Time Should You Allocate
30-45 minutes is sufficient to walk across the bridge and take photographs. However, when combined with other historical sites of Edirne, Selimiye, Eski Mosque, Uc Serefeli, this bridge becomes more meaningful as part of a day-long walking route.
Suggested Route
Start from Selimiye Mosque and walk to Tunca Bridge via Eski Mosque. After crossing the bridge, you can continue with a short walk to where the Meric and Tunca Rivers meet. If you have time, a visit to the Edirne Great Synagogue completes the route.
Good Photography Spots
The angle from the opposite bank of the bridge where the arches are reflected in the water is the most preferred shot. The afternoon sun angle makes the stone texture more prominent. Shots from the bridge looking at the river are also suitable for capturing architectural details, especially the craftsmanship of the arch stones.
Things to Be Aware Of
Since the bridge is still open to vehicle traffic, be careful when crossing as a pedestrian. Sidewalk width is limited, and especially those with children should walk hand-in-hand for safety. The ground near the river bank can become slippery after rain.
This content originates from neresigezilir.com.tr and may not be copied without permission.
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