Kesik Köprü is a stone bridge from the Anatolian Seljuk period located over the Kızılırmak River in central Sivas. Consisting of a 17-arch main section and an additional two-arch part 10 meters away, the 326-meter long structure on the old Sivas-Kayseri road served as a crossing point for caravans.
Kesik Köprü (Broken Bridge) crosses the Kızılırmak River southwest of central Sivas, on the old Sivas-Kayseri-Şarkışla road. Sources vary on its construction date, giving dates between 1213 and 1292, but it is generally accepted to be from the Anatolian Seljuk period. The bridge is not a single piece: there is a 17-arch main section running north-south, and a smaller, two-arch continuation piece about 10 meters away. Water no longer flows under this second part, but it is considered part of the bridge as it forms a whole with the main bridge. The total length reaches 326 meters, and it was built from cut stone.
This crossing over the Kızılırmak River was a route used by caravans, horse-drawn carriages, and travelers for centuries. Today, it is closed to traffic, serving only as a spot for pedestrians and photographers. A frequently mentioned point in visitor reviews is that the bridge's stonework and sturdy appearance are admired, but many also note a lack of landscaping and information signs. Some comments complain about insufficient lighting and maintenance, while some visitors mention that the riverbed occasionally remains dry. Nevertheless, for those who want to see its historical texture, it is an easily accessible stop close to the city center.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Sivas historical places, Great Mosque and Hospital of Divriği.
Guide's Note
When to Visit
There is no specific season required to see Kesik Köprü. Since it is an open-air site with free entry, it can be visited throughout the year. However, the water level of the Kızılırmak River varies by season; some visitors note that the riverbed dries up in summer, so the view showing the bridge's original function is better in spring or autumn. In mid-summer, the midday heat is intense, so visiting in the morning or late afternoon provides a more comfortable experience.
How to Get There
The bridge is located approximately 4 kilometers from Sivas city square, on Kesikköprü Street in Karşıyaka Neighborhood. It can be reached by private car or taxi in 10-15 minutes. The distance is a bit long for those who wish to walk, so using public transport or a vehicle is more practical.
How Much Time to Allocate
Kesik Köprü is a 20-30 minute stop on its own. This time is sufficient to walk across the bridge, examine the stonework up close, and take photos. If planned together with other bridges visited in Sivas (Eğri Köprü, Boğaz Köprüsü), a half-day bridge tour can also be made.
Suggested Itinerary
Visiting Kesik Köprü after exploring the historic city square in central Sivas is a logical sequence. For those who wish to visit other historical bridges over the Kızılırmak River on the same day, Eğri Köprü and Boğaz Köprüsü can be added to the itinerary; all three are considered close to each other within the scope of cultural tourism.
Things to Pay Attention To
A frequently recurring issue in visitor comments is that the bridge's landscaping and information signs are found to be inadequate, and some visitors mention a lack of maintenance. Therefore, it is useful to note down the location information and the bridge's history before going to the site; it can be difficult to find detailed explanations on site. Since the ground is stone and uneven, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes.
Photo Spots
The bridge's 17-arch main section, when photographed from a wide angle from the banks of the Kızılırmak, reveals the rhythm of the stone arches. Shots looking at the river from the bridge are also popular. The afternoon light makes the stone texture more prominent, while shadows can be harsher in the morning.
The Story of the Bridge
There are minor differences among sources regarding the construction date of Kesik Köprü; some point to 1213, others to 1292, with the general consensus being that it belongs to the Anatolian Seljuk period. Records also indicate that it underwent a repair during the reign of Sultan Abdülaziz. Its old name is stated to be Gürcü Hüseyin Bridge. Some older generations among the local people also refer to the bridge as '19 bridges', likely a local designation related to the number of arches.
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