Cirimbolu Köprüsü ve Su Kemeri, Isparta'nın Uluborlu ilçesinde, 1869-1872 yılları arasında Kapı Dağı'ndaki suyun kaleye taşınması için inşa edilen iki katlı kemerli yapıdır; yaklaşık 20 metre yüksekliğinde vadiyi geçerek köprü işlevini de görmüştür ve giriş ücretsizdir.
The Cirimbolu Aqueduct spans a deep valley in the old center of Uluborlu, connecting its two sides. Its purpose was to transport water: it was built between 1869-1872 to bring water from Kavil Spring on Kapı Mountain into the castle. It also functioned as a bridge; thus, it was designed as both an aqueduct and a passage.
It rests on two superimposed round arches, and its dimensions vary from source to source. Official sources such as the Culture Portal and Uluborlu District Governorship state the length as 4.5 meters. Some local sources claim this is a typo and the actual length is around 45 meters. Figures of 20-21 meters are given for height and 2.5 meters for width. The central section was built using rubble infill technique, with its upper surface covered in stone.
Being about 130 meters close to Uluborlu Castle, it can be easily seen along with a castle visit. It forms a short walking route with historical structures in the vicinity such as Alaaddin Mosque and Aslanlı Fountain.
Guide's Note
What is the Cirimbolu Aqueduct?
The structure was built spanning a deep valley in the old settlement area of Uluborlu. Its purpose was to deliver water from Kavil Spring on Kapı Mountain to the castle. Therefore, it functioned as both an aqueduct and a bridge. It is known to have been built between 1869-1872, coinciding with the last quarter of the Ottoman period.
When to Visit?
As an open-air structure, it can be visited year-round. In the summer months, as the midday heat rises in the inland areas of Uluborlu, morning or late afternoon hours are more comfortable. Since there is less shade when walking along the valley, a spring and autumn visit is more enjoyable.
How to Get There?
After reaching Uluborlu town center, it is sufficient to head towards the old settlement area. Since the aqueduct is only 130 meters away from Uluborlu Castle, anyone who finds the castle can easily see the aqueduct. As it passes 17 km near the Istanbul-Antalya highway route, those traveling on this route can make a short detour to visit.
How Much Time Should Be Allocated?
The structure itself does not offer a large touring area; it is an architectural work viewed from the outside. Approximately 45 minutes is sufficient. This duration includes photographing the arch from different angles and a short walk.
Other Stops in the Vicinity
The Cirimbolu Aqueduct is more meaningful when visited not alone, but together with the historical fabric of Uluborlu. Nearby are Uluborlu Castle (130 m), Alaaddin Mosque (280 m), Aslanlı Fountain (390 m), Bülbül Mosque/Alemdar Mosque (540 m), and Muhittin Fountain (560 m). Since these stops are within walking distance of each other, it is possible to create a half-day Uluborlu tour.
Source Discrepancy Regarding Dimensions
Official sources such as the Culture Portal and Uluborlu District Governorship state the bridge's length as 4.5 meters. However, some local researchers claim this figure is due to a typo and that the actual length should be around 45 meters. Regarding height, different figures between 20 and 21 meters are mentioned. On-site inspection or confirmation from current sources is recommended for precise measurements.
Good Angles for Photography
Shots taken from below, where the arch crosses the valley, better show the two-story arch structure and its height. When shooting from above, from the part used as a bridge, the depth of the valley forms the background.
This content originates from neresigezilir.com.tr and may not be copied without permission.
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