About Cendere Bridge
The Cendere Bridge, also known as the Severan Bridge, is an ancient Roman bridge located near the ancient city of Arsameia (today near the village of Çalbaşı in the Kahta district of Adıyaman Province, Turkey).
The bridge spans over the Cendere Creek and is one of the oldest Roman bridges to have survived to this day. It is notable for its advanced engineering and architectural design.
Here’s some more about its history:
The Cendere Bridge was built in the 2nd century AD by the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus. It was constructed to honor his wife, Julia Domna, and their two sons, Caracalla and Geta. Originally, there were four Corinthian columns on the bridge. Two columns were dedicated to Septimius Severus and Julia Domna, and the other two were for their sons. However, after Caracalla had his brother Geta assassinated in 211 AD, Geta’s column was removed, leaving only three standing to this day.
The bridge was designed with a unique feature to help it withstand the rushing waters of the creek. Each of its arches has small openings called pressure-relief valves which allow water to pass through during periods of high flow, reducing the force on the structure.
The Cendere Bridge is now a protected site and is open for tourists. It’s a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to have picnics and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.
How to get to Cendere Bridge
The Cendere Bridge is located near the ancient city of Arsameia, close to the village of Çalbaşı in the Kahta district of Adıyaman Province, Turkey.
To reach the bridge:
By Air: The nearest airport is Adıyaman Airport, which is connected to many major cities in Turkey. Once you reach Adıyaman, you can rent a car or take a taxi to reach Cendere Bridge.
By Road: If you’re already in Turkey, you could drive or hire a taxi. From the city of Adıyaman, it’s a drive of about an hour to the bridge.
By Public Transport: Public transport services such as buses or minibuses may also be available from Adıyaman to Kahta. From Kahta, you can hire a taxi or a minibus to Cendere Bridge.
What to pack for Cendere Bridge
Visiting the Cendere Bridge involves a certain amount of walking and outdoor activity, so here are a few packing suggestions:
Comfortable Clothing: Depending on the time of year, you’ll want to pack appropriately for the weather. Summers can be quite hot, so lightweight, breathable clothing is advisable. Winters can be cold and sometimes snowy, so layers, including a warm coat, are necessary.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are recommended, as the terrain around the Cendere Bridge can be uneven.
Sun Protection: Regardless of the time of year, be sure to bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Water and Snacks: There may not be food vendors nearby, so it’s a good idea to bring water and snacks, especially if you’re planning to explore the area for a few hours.
Camera: The Cendere Bridge is a historical and architectural marvel, so you’ll likely want to take photos.
Local Map or GPS: If you’re driving or hiking in the area, having a map or GPS can help you find your way.
Travel Guide or Information: Having information on the history and significance of the bridge can enhance your visit.
Personal Identification and Travel Documents: Always keep these on you when traveling.
Where to stay near Cendere Bridge?
Here are a few suggestions:
White Star Hotel: Located in Adiyaman city center, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant, and a fitness center.
Arsames Hotel: Another city center option, the Arsames Hotel offers spacious rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary breakfast.
Bozdogan Hotel: This budget-friendly option in the city center offers basic amenities and a warm, welcoming environment.
What type of climate does Cendere Bridge have?
The Cendere Bridge is located in southeastern Turkey, near the city of Adiyaman. The area experiences a semi-arid climate with hot, dry summers and cool, occasionally wet winters.
The average high temperature in summer (June-August) can be around 30-35 degrees Celsius (86-95 degrees Fahrenheit), and the temperature can drop to around -2 to 5 degrees Celsius (28-41 degrees Fahrenheit) in winter (December-February). Rainfall is quite low throughout the year, with the highest precipitation typically seen in the winter months.
As the bridge is an outdoor historical site, it’s advisable to visit in the spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) when the weather is milder and more comfortable for sightseeing. Be sure to check the current weather conditions before your visit.
When is the best time to visit Cendere Bridge?
The best time to visit the Cendere Bridge would be during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). During these periods, the weather in southeastern Turkey is usually milder and more pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing.
The spring season brings blossoming flowers and greener landscapes which can enhance the beauty of the historical site. The fall, on the other hand, is characterized by fewer tourists and the changing colors of the leaves, giving a unique charm to the surroundings.
Summers can be hot, while winters can be chilly, and since the bridge is an open-air site, it’s best visited during milder weather. However, always check the weather forecast in advance to plan your trip accordingly.
The history of Cendere Bridge
The Cendere Bridge, also known as the Severan Bridge, is one of the most significant Roman bridge examples in the world. It’s located near the ancient city of Arsameia, in present-day Adiyaman province, southeastern Turkey.
The bridge was constructed in the 2nd century AD, around 198-200 AD, during the reign of the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus, hence the alternate name “Severan Bridge”. It was built over the Cendere (or Kahta) River and was part of the ancient Roman road that connected the cities of Samsat and Melitene.
The bridge is approximately 120 meters long and 7 meters wide, standing on two main and two smaller supporting arches. Originally, there were four Corinthian columns standing on pedestals at both ends of the bridge, with each pair carrying the statue of a member of the Severan dynasty: Septimius Severus, his wife Julia Domna, and their sons Caracalla and Geta. Today, only three columns and one pedestal (which bore the statue of Geta) remain; Geta’s statue and column were removed after his brother Caracalla murdered him and declared damnatio memoriae, an act of erasure from the historical record.
The Cendere Bridge is still in use today, testifying to the outstanding engineering skills of the Roman builders. It has become an iconic historical site attracting both local and foreign tourists.
Famous firsts and greatest of Cendere Bridge
As one of the oldest and best-preserved Roman bridges in the world, the Cendere Bridge has a few noteworthy highlights:
Age and Preservation: Built in the 2nd century AD, the bridge has survived over 1800 years, which is a testament to the engineering and architectural skills of the Roman builders.
Architectural Achievement: It’s constructed with two main and two smaller supporting arches, demonstrating the architectural finesse and structural understanding of the Romans. Its design ensured stability and durability which has led to its longevity.
Notable Figures: The original structure featured four Corinthian columns with statues of the members of the Severan dynasty: Septimius Severus, Julia Domna, and their sons Caracalla and Geta. Although Geta’s statue was removed after his death, the other three still provide a connection to the historical figures of that era.
Continual Usage: One of its greatest achievements is that it is still in use today, allowing local residents and tourists to traverse the Cendere River. Its long-standing functionality is a testament to the Romans’ superior construction methods.
Historical places near Cendere Bridge
The Cendere Bridge itself is a historical place and one of the most significant landmarks in the region. It is located near Adıyaman, in southeastern Turkey.
Nearby historical places include:
Nemrut Mountain: Famous for its colossal statues and tumulus, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a must-visit location when you’re in the region. It’s one of the most popular tourist spots near the Cendere Bridge.
Arsemia Ancient City: Arsemia was the summer capital of the Commagene Kingdom. The city’s ruins, which include an array of bas-relief carvings, are another significant historical site near the bridge.
Eski Kahta (Old Kahta) Castle: This ancient castle overlooks the modern town of Kahta and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Karakuş Tumulus: This funerary mound, marked by several columns and statues, was built for the women of the royal family of the Commagene Kingdom. It’s one of the lesser-known but still important historical sites in the area.
The Commagene Kingdom: The whole region is historically important due to the presence of the Commagene Kingdom in ancient times. Many ruins and archaeological sites associated with the kingdom are scattered around the area.
Who is the most famous people in the history of Cendere Bridge?
The Cendere Bridge, also known as the Severan Bridge, was constructed during the reign of the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus (193–211 AD), who would be the most significant historical figure related to the bridge. It was a gift from his second son Caracalla to the Roman gods and the people and army of Rome.
Septimius Severus, his wife Julia Domna, and his two sons, Caracalla and Geta, were an influential Roman Imperial family from 193-235 AD. The bridge’s construction was a part of Severus’ extensive building programs throughout the Roman Empire.
Caracalla, as the eventual successor of Severus, also plays an important role in the bridge’s history. He is infamous for having his younger brother, Geta, assassinated to become the sole emperor, which is why Geta’s name and dedicatory inscriptions were later removed from the bridge.
In terms of historical significance, it’s also worth mentioning that the Cendere Bridge is one of the oldest Roman bridges to have survived largely intact to the present day.
What is the best places to visit near Cendere Bridge?
The Cendere Bridge, also known as the Severan Bridge, is a historical site in itself and there are a few points of interest related to it:
The Bridge Itself: First and foremost, the bridge is the main attraction. Its arches and still-standing columns make for a beautiful sight. It’s quite a marvel to think that this structure has survived since Roman times.
Inscriptions: Look out for the Latin inscriptions on the bridge. They tell the story of the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus and his family. Although some were defaced when one of Severus’s sons was murdered, they are still a fascinating insight into the history of the bridge.
Surrounding Scenery: The bridge is located in a beautiful area of natural beauty. The Cendere stream over which it passes and the lush greenery of the Kahta district make for great photography.
Nearby Attractions: While visiting the Cendere Bridge, you could also plan to visit other nearby historical attractions, like the Mount Nemrut National Park, home to the famous Nemrut Dag, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its giant stone statues.
The best Cendere Bridge Tours
There are many tours available that include the Cendere Bridge along with other historical and natural sites in the Adiyaman region. Here are a few suggested ones:
Nemrut Mountain, Cendere Bridge, and Arsemia Tour: This tour usually starts early in the morning and includes a trip to Mount Nemrut to see the sunrise, followed by visits to the Cendere Bridge and the ruins of Arsemia.
Adiyaman Day Tour: This full-day tour covers the major historical sites in the Adiyaman region including the Cendere Bridge, Mount Nemrut, and the Karakus Tumulus.
Eastern Turkey Adventure Tour: This tour is usually a week-long journey that covers many historical sites in Eastern Turkey. The Cendere Bridge is one of the stops along with Mount Ararat, Lake Van, and the city of Mardin.
Custom Private Tours: You can also hire a local tour guide to provide a more personalized experience. They can take you to the Cendere Bridge along with other sites based on your interest and pace.