Çobandede Bridge is a 128-meter-long Seljuk-Ilkhanid bridge located on the Aras River at the 58th kilometer of the Erzurum-Horasan highway, built in 1298 by the Ilkhanid vizier Emir Çoban Salduz. It features six arches constructed with black, red, and gray cut stones.
Çobandede Bridge rises at the confluence of the Kargapazarı and Aras rivers. Emir Çoban Salduz, vizier to Ilkhanid ruler Ghazan Khan, had the bridge built in 1298. Thus, more than seven centuries have passed since its construction. It is located on the historical Silk Road route; it was one of the main points used by caravans traveling east from Erzurum.
It is a structure 128 meters long and 8.5 meters wide. Originally built with seven arches, one arch was destroyed in a flood in 1872 and completely closed during repairs. Today, you pass through six arches. The arches are built with black, red, and gray cut stones; the largest span is 13 meters, and the highest point of the bridge reaches 30 meters. The masters laid juniper wood under the bridge piers to prevent sinking. They also left gaps between the buffer walls to lighten the weight. The bridge underwent repairs in 1727, 1872, and 1948, with the last restoration completed in 2011.
It is located within the Köprüköy district boundaries, at the 58th kilometer of the Erzurum-Horasan highway. It suddenly appears by the roadside; it is necessary to slow down your vehicle in time. It is one of Erzurum's prominent stops for photographers and history enthusiasts.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Erzurum historical places, Three Tombs.
Guide's Note
When to Visit
Since the bridge is an open-air structure, it can be seen year-round. However, considering Erzurum's winter conditions, spring and summer months offer a more comfortable visit. It can be difficult to stop by the roadside and take photos during periods of snow and ice. In spring, when the river's water level is high, the combined view of the bridge and the Aras River is more striking.
How to Get There
You will see the bridge when you drive on the highway from Erzurum city center towards Horasan and reach the 58th kilometer. It is located within the Köprüköy district boundaries, very close to the main road. If you are going by private car, finding a parking spot by the roadside is usually not a problem. But remember to slow down as the bridge appears suddenly. Those using public transport can take minibuses departing from Erzurum bus station towards Köprüköy.
How Much Time to Allocate
20-30 minutes is sufficient to visit the bridge, take photos, and wander around its vicinity. The most practical method is to consider it a roadside stop when traveling from Erzurum towards Horasan or Kars. It is planned more as part of a regional tour rather than a standalone destination.
Route Suggestion
Çobandede Bridge is a natural stop on the route for those traveling from Erzurum towards Kars or Ağrı. It can be combined with other points in the Köprüköy district, such as Deli Çermik. Visiting historical structures in Erzurum city center, such as Çifte Minareli Medrese and Erzurum Castle, in the morning and heading towards Köprüköy in the afternoon is a way to make efficient use of the day.
Photo Spots
The arch sequence of the bridge and the flow of the Aras River are most clearly visible from a wide angle by the roadside. The black, red, and gray stone texture in the arches also stands out in close-up shots. In spring, when the river water is abundant, the bridge-river combination provides a more vibrant frame.
Things to Pay Attention To
The bridge is on the main road and appears suddenly; be careful while driving. If you stop by the roadside to examine it, observe the traffic flow. Walking on the bridge is possible, but since the stone surface can be uneven, choose sturdy shoes.
History
The bridge was built during the Ilkhanate period (1256-1336); its construction date is given as 1298. It bears the name of Emir Çoban Salduz. Over the centuries, it underwent repairs in 1727, 1872, and 1948, with the last restoration completed in 2011. Its structural form and the decorations at its head reflect the Seljuk and Ilkhanid architectural styles.
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