Taşköprü (Roman Stone Bridge)

Taşköprü, the Roman Stone Bridge, crosses the Seyhan River in central Adana, below the Tepebağ quarter in southern Turkey. Dating to the 2nd century AD, the limestone bridge is one of the oldest bridges in continuous use in the world, and it is now pedestrianised, so visitors can walk across the surviving arches without traffic. Only part of the original arcade remains, with later repairs visible in the stonework, which makes a close look at the masonry rewarding. The bridge itself takes only 20 to 30 minutes to cross and explore, but it works best as a hinge between the old town and the riverfront. From the deck, visitors see the slow brown water of the Seyhan, the Sabancı Merkez Camii minarets on the western horizon, and the hill of Tepebağ rising on the east side. The best photographs are taken from the riverbank at either end, where the arches fall into frame, particularly at dusk when the bridge is lit. Early morning is the coolest and quietest time; midday in summer is hot and exposed, as there is little shade on the span. Crowds are never large, though evening brings local walkers and families. The bridge is open at all hours and free of charge, with no ticketing. It sits about ten minutes on foot from Kazancılar Bazaar and the Ulu Cami area, and is a short uphill walk from Tepebağ's mansions and the Atatürk House Museum, so it is easy to fold into a walking circuit of the old town. Taxis can drop visitors at either end. Visitors should keep to the pedestrian surface and take care with young children near the low parapets.