Saturday, 12 October 2024
Konya’s Historic Devil's Bridge

Konya’s Historic Devil's Bridge

The Devil's Bridge, situated in the Sille neighborhood of Konya, is part of a historical settlement that dates back 5,000 years. Originally built as an aqueduct, the bridge later connected two steep slopes, creating a narrow and treacherous passage. 


Sille, rich with influences from the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods, serves as a melting pot of various cultures. This neighborhood, which played a significant role in Anatolian civilizations, is noted in historical sources as a place where different cultures coexisted, particularly during the early Christian era.


The Devil's Bridge is believed to have been constructed in the 16th century during the Ottoman period, based on the materials and techniques used.


Initially designed as an aqueduct to channel water through the valley to the neighborhood, it later functioned as a bridge, connecting the two slopes.


The bridge likely earned its name, Devil's Bridge, due to its daunting structure, positioned high in the valley with a narrow, precarious design. Because of these characteristics, it is not commonly used today.


Although located near a main road, the bridge remains relatively unknown to both local and foreign tourists due to its secluded position within the valley.