Skopje Stone Bridge

Skopje, North Macedonia

The current Stone Bridge in Skopje across the Vardar River was built on Roman foundations under the patronage of Sultan Mehmed II the Conqueror between 1451 and 1469. Most of the bridge originates from the Ottoman period and throughout the centuries, the Stone Bridge was often damaged and then repaired. There is historical evidence that it once suffered during the great earthquake of 1555 which heavily damaged or destroyed four pillars. Renovations were carried out the same year. Some executions have also taken place on this bridge, such as the execution of Karposh in 1689.

In 1944, explosives were placed on the bridge by Nazis. Upon a request from city notables, the Germans give up at the last minute and the bridge was saved from destruction. The last reconstruction of the bridge began in 1994. Over seven years during the Stone Bridge refurbishment of the 1990s, people were not allowed to cross the structure and for many craftsmen from the nearby Old Bazaar it resulted in negative economic effects. The watchtower shaped like a mihrab was reconstructed in 2008.

The bridge is considered a symbol of Skopje and is the main element of the coat of arms of the city, which in turn is incorporated in the city's flag.

The Stone Bridge is built of solid stone blocks and is supported by firm columns that are connected with 12 semicircular arcs. The bridge is 214 m long and 6 m wide. The guardhouse has recently been reconstructed.

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Details

Founded: 1451-1469
Category: Miscellaneous historic sites in North Macedonia

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

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4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

CK Cheong (8 months ago)
The bridge has a lot of history and it dates back more than 500 years to the Ottoman period. It is an old pedestrian bridge build on 10 arches that span across the Vardar river connecting Square Macedonia and the Old Bazaar area. It is considered a symbol of Skopje.
Winston Posegate (8 months ago)
Historic landmark, similar to some bridges in Kosovo (e.g., Prizren). The Stone Bridge is very centrally located in Skopje between the Old Bazaar and Macedonia Square, very near museums, monuments, street vendors, shops, cafes, restaurants, hotels, etc. There is some graffiti on the bridge, but it is not visible from the most photogenic angles. It is likely you will cross this bridge while walking around as a tourist, though there are other bridges nearby in both directions. Both sides of the bridge are busy in the summer; many people cross the bridge in the evenings. You can also walk under the bridge on either side of the river, where there are paved paths that are popular for strolling and cycling.
Bojan D (9 months ago)
Beautiful historic bridge, real tourist attraction, but unfortunately it's not cool to see dirty Vardar underneath it.
jeremy kalous (9 months ago)
Very cool old bridge. Dead in the heat of the afternoon but crowded at night. The river area of Skopje is very picturesque with many grand buildings but also a lot of life going on
K Jacelyn (11 months ago)
The stone Bridge is very nice but there is an awful smell on the bridge as you walk. I hope they will clean it up. It's a shame for a beautiful bridge across the river to leave a "smelly" impresson.
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