Akköprü

Ankara, in addition to being the capital of Turkey, stands out for its deep-rooted history and rich cultural heritage. One of the rare gems of this heritage is Akköprü, a remarkable structure from the Seljuk period. Meaning "White Bridge" in Turkish, this historic site continues to captivate visitors today with its architectural beauty and historical significance.

History of Akköprü

Akköprü is located in Ankara’s Yenimahalle district, specifically in Varlık Neighborhood. It was built during the reign of the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I, between 1222 and 1230, under the direction of Ankara Governor Kızıl Bey. Situated at the confluence of İncesu Stream, Çubuk Stream, and Hatip Stream, Akköprü is one of the rare Seljuk-era structures that have survived to the present day.

Architectural Features

Akköprü showcases the elegant stone craftsmanship characteristic of Seljuk architecture. Its standout architectural features include:

🏗️ Seven Arches: The bridge has a total of seven arches and spans approximately 140 meters.

🪨 Cut-Stone Construction: The cut stones used in its construction reflect the architectural understanding of the period.

🌉 Wide Central Arch: The large central arch is notably wider than the others, designed specifically to enhance the bridge's load-bearing capacity.

🖋️ Stone Inscriptions: The inscriptions on the bridge display the artistic details of Seljuk-era stone craftsmanship.

Restoration and Preservation Efforts

Over the centuries, Akköprü has undergone several repairs and restoration efforts. In recent years, comprehensive restoration projects led by the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism have aimed to preserve the structural integrity of the bridge and enhance its tourist appeal. During these restorations, the stones were cleaned, weakened sections were reinforced, and the original architectural features were preserved.

How to Reach Akköprü

Reaching Akköprü is quite easy. Many EGO buses from Kızılay Square provide direct access to the bridge. Additionally, you can take the metro from Kızılay Metro Station in the direction of Batıkent and get off at Akköprü Station. ANKAmall Shopping Center is just a 10-minute walk from the bridge.

Nearby Attractions

Several significant points of interest can be explored around Akköprü:

🛍️ ANKAmall Shopping Center: One of Turkey’s largest shopping malls, ANKAmall is only a 10-minute walk from Akköprü.

🎭 Atatürk Cultural Center: Located 2 km away, this center hosts numerous fairs and events.

🏛️ Ankara Republic Museum: Situated in Ulus, this historic museum highlights key decisions in Turkish history.

Akköprü is a must-see destination in Ankara, offering a glimpse into the architectural and historical legacy of the Seljuk period. Its elegant stone craftsmanship, historical ambiance, and convenient location make it a compelling site to visit. Along with the nearby attractions, Akköprü provides a unique experience where history and modern life intersect.

Visiting this extraordinary historical structure allows you to witness Ankara’s rich past and create unforgettable memories.