Yıldız Bridge is a historic 13-arch, 70-meter-long bridge located over the Yıldız River in Yıldızeli district of Sivas, repaired by the Seljuks on Roman foundations. Three bearded human figures on the central arch are notable. Free entry.
Yıldız Bridge is located approximately 26 kilometers from Sivas city center, in the Sıcak Çermik area of Yıldızeli district, spanning the Yıldız River. Its origins date back to the Roman period. It was repaired during the Seljuk period and reached its current form. It has 13 arches formed by piers and pointed arches, is 70 meters long, and approximately 4 meters wide. It is surprising to consider the road traffic that passed over it, given that it was used as a real transportation bridge until the Republican era.
The most striking detail of the bridge is hidden inside the central arch: three human figures with beards and pointed hats, standing on each other's shoulders. The stones are yellow, made from the same material extracted from quarries around Sıcak Çermik. The vaulted remains in the third arch on the Sivas entrance side are directly from the Roman period. Thus, it is possible to see traces of two different eras on the bridge simultaneously. In the late 19th century, during the governorship of Halil Rıfat Pasha, it underwent another repair by Silahdar-zade Mehmet Ali Efendi. In 2021, restoration and landscaping were carried out, and it is now open to visitors.
Written sources mention that there was once a caravanserai built next to it in 1332, but today no trace of that structure can be found. An Armenian-inscribed stone is also placed on the south side of the bridge, indicating that the structure was used by different communities in different periods.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Sivas historical places, Hafik Lake.
Guide's Note
About Yıldız Bridge
The bridge takes its name from the Yıldız River it spans. It was rebuilt by the Seljuks on Roman foundations, making it one of the rare structures that bear traces of two civilizations simultaneously. The vaulted remains in the third arch on the Sivas entrance side still stand as original pieces dating back to the Roman period.
How to Get There
From Sivas city center, follow the Ankara-Sivas highway to the Sıcak Çermik area in Yıldızeli district. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes by your own car. Public transport options are limited, so a taxi or private car is the most comfortable method.
How Much Time to Allocate
30-45 minutes is sufficient to explore the bridge and take photos. If you plan to visit the nearby Sıcak Çermik hot springs, you can make a half-day plan.
Photography Tips
To clearly see the three human figures in the central arch of the bridge, you need to look from the riverbank, from an angle close to the arches. At noon, the light brings out the yellow tones of the stones more distinctly.
Things to Consider
The bridge is in an open-air area, and although the landscaping was renewed in 2021, the ground may be stony and uneven. It is advisable to wear walking shoes. Families with children should be careful near the river.
Route Suggestion
Combining Yıldız Bridge with a visit to Sıcak Çermik hot springs makes sense; they are close to each other. Visiting this bridge on your way back after exploring the Seljuk artifacts in Sivas city center (Gök Medrese, Çifte Minareli Medrese) completes the day well.
Yıldız Bridge Videos
Yıldız Bridge videos load when you open this section to keep the page fast.
Show videos
FAQ
Updated:
