Kilezdere Bridge is a five-arched cut stone bridge located over the Kilezdere stream in the Başiskele district of Kocaeli, built in the 16th century during the Ottoman period by Canfeda Hatun. It is situated on the historic Baghdad Road route and can be visited free of charge.
The Kilezdere Bridge stands over the Kilezdere stream in the Başiskele district of Kocaeli, approximately 1 km south of the İzmit-Istanbul highway, alongside Oramiral Salim Dervişoğlu Street. This five-arched cut stone bridge, built in the 16th century during the Ottoman period, is known to have been commissioned by Canfeda Hatun, who was close to Nurbanu Sultan, the mother of Murad III. Located on the historic Baghdad Road route, the structure was part of this important trade and expedition route for centuries.
Visitors state that they are quite impressed by the bridge's stonework and arch technique. It is particularly noted in comments that the stream flowing beneath it is quite vigorous in spring, while in summer, as the water recedes, it takes on the appearance of a small canyon. There are differing opinions among visitors as to whether the bridge alone warrants a long journey; however, most visitors agree that it should be added to your itinerary if you are in the region. Insufficient landscaping, neglect, and damage are among the frequently raised issues. Recent restoration efforts have been positively received.
Related discoveries: Historical Sites, Kocaeli historical sites, Bayramoğlu Island (Peninsula).
Guide's Note
Kilezdere Bridge, also known as Kutluca Stone Bridge, is a five-arched structure approximately 25 meters long, built in the first century AD during the Roman period. Visitors find the well-cut stonework and arch technique particularly striking. It is reported that the stream flowing beneath it is quite strong in spring, while in summer, as the water recedes, it takes on the appearance of a small canyon.
Many visitors state that the bridge left a greater impression than they expected. They recommend adding it to your itinerary if you are passing through the area, rather than traveling a long distance solely for this structure; for those living nearby, they describe it as a definitely worthwhile stop. While recent restoration efforts have been positively received, serious concerns are raised about the bridge's surroundings.
- Vandalism and damage: Visitors report that stone blocks have been removed from the bridge piers, ground stones have been broken, and various parts of the structure have been damaged. The lack of security cameras and regular inspections is noted.
- Neglect and cleanliness: It is emphasized in multiple comments that walls of the structure have been graffitied, litter has been left around it, and general maintenance is insufficient.
- Visitor infrastructure: There are no shaded areas, seating, or social facilities; landscaping has not yet been done.
About the Bridge
Kilezdere Bridge is a five-arched structure made of cut stone, reflecting the stone bridge tradition of the Ottoman period. Built by Canfeda Hatun in the 16th century, the bridge is considered among the charitable works of this lady, who is known for her close relationship with Nurbanu Sultan, the mother of Murad III. Also known as "Kemer Köprü" (Arch Bridge) among the public, the structure is located on the historic Baghdad Road route.
In 1998, the bridge was moved 50 meters from its original location during railway construction. This intervention is considered an important step in the preservation of the structure. Today, it is located within the borders of Vezirçiftliği Mahallesi.
Best Time to Visit
You can visit the bridge throughout the year; however, you experience a different atmosphere depending on the season. In April and May, the Kilezdere stream flows quite vigorously; this presents the bridge in its most powerful visual and atmospheric state. Visitors state that the water flowing under the bridge in spring adds a distinct grandeur to the structure.
In summer, when the water level drops, the streambed takes on the appearance of a small canyon. Autumn is also a suitable time for photography with its colorful vegetation. You can find a calmer environment in the morning hours.
How to Get There?
Kilezdere Bridge is approximately 9 km from Kocaeli city center. You can reach it by car by passing through İzmit to the Başiskele district and following Oramiral Salim Dervişoğlu Street; the journey takes approximately 15–20 minutes.
For those who prefer public transport, there is a regular line from İzmit center to Başiskele; however, the final distance to the bridge needs to be completed on foot. There is no designated parking area around, so those coming by car may need to look for a suitable spot along the street.
Photo Spots
The most striking photos of the bridge are taken from angles from the streambed or the opposite bank. The arch structure and stonework stand out with all their details in close-up shots. In spring, when the water level is high, the reflection of all the bridge's arches on the water presents a beautiful composition.
At sunrise and sunset, the way the light falls on the stone surface adds a warm tone to the photos. It is also possible to capture interesting perspectives by looking down at the streambed from the bridge.
Things to Pay Attention To
Visitors report issues of neglect and vandalism around the bridge. Comments highlight graffiti on the walls and various damages. It is important to be careful during your visit and leave the area clean.
It is also noted that facilities such as seating areas or shaded spots around the bridge have not yet been sufficiently developed. If you plan to stay for a long time, bring water and snacks with you. Although recent restoration efforts have improved the condition of the bridge, shortcomings in landscaping persist.
Suggested Itinerary
Kilezdere Bridge is not a comprehensive enough site to fill a long day on its own. Visiting it in combination with other historical sites in Kocaeli makes for a much more efficient trip. Other Ottoman-era structures in and around Başiskele and İzmit, Eskihisar Castle, and points along the İzmit Gulf coast can easily be added to the same itinerary.
For those who want to explore the historical fabric of Kocaeli, the bridge can be positioned as a starting or intermediate stop for a half-day program. If your path takes you through Başiskele, be sure to stop by.
What to Eat Nearby?
There are no food and beverage facilities immediately around Kilezdere Bridge. Before or after your bridge visit, you can sit down for local dishes at restaurants in Başiskele district center or İzmit city center. In Kocaeli cuisine, İzmit pişmaniyesi (floss halva), fresh seafood, and gulf fish are among the prominent options.
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