Khaju Bridge Esfahan

Found downstream from the Allahverdi Khan Bridge, it is the most beautiful historical bridge in Esfahan. It is believed that its name, Khaju Bridge, is derived from khajeh ("a courtier" or "a noble"), and thus the bridge is named after a neighboring district, inhabited by the court elite. However, in various periods it was also known as the Royal, the Zoroastrian, the Hasan Abad, or the Baba Rokn al- Din Bridge. Historical bridges of Esfahan are the most iconic landmarks of this city. Among these bridges, Sio-Se-Pol and this bridge are defenitely the most loved ones.

a historical bridge


History

The bridge was built in the 15th century, during Tamerlane’s successors. It is a memorial to the Shah Abbas II settlements in the Safavid period, with its functions such as the dam and the regulation of the flow of water, has been a masterpiece in building bridges in its era. According to archaeologists, this bridge has been built on a bridge that had already been destroyed.

After 17th Century, travelers visiting Iran and tourist admiration has increased. Khaju Bridge in Esfahan is one of the oldest bridge. Shah Abbas II, built new bridge on foundation of old bridge which was constructed in 1650. It has been repaired specially in 1837. It serves as a link between Zoroastrian quarters and north banks, through the river Zayandeh River. This bridge is constructed with multi-purpose, the bridge is not only used for transportation but also as weir. The primary function of this bridge was abode for public meeting or as a tea-house.


Architecture

It is one of the true example of Safavid architecture that is famous for its exemplary strength. That is one of the reasons that many of the buildings, caravanserais and monuments from that era are still standing strong. In fact, the bridge is more famous than other bridges of Zayandeh River due to its architecture and tile decorations.

The length of the bridge is 133 meters and its width is 12 meters. The bridge is known by another names, but it is known as Khaju Bridge in the Khaju quarter. Unlike other Bridge this bridge has 23-arches, 26 and 21 smaller and large inlets. The bridge is made up of bricks and stones. The stones used in construction of this bridge is 2-meter long. It has 20-meter distance between ceiling base and each channels. The bridge is not constructed with support of cables or so, it is arch bridge. The structure is in semi-circular form.

Khaju mansion

In the middle of Khaju, there was a mansion for Shah Abbas, which is called "Shahneshin", at that time was a temporary residence as well as place for kings to watch swimming and sailing competitions. one stone bench is all that remains of the chair of the King. There is also arches that are decorated with special elegance.

 

Opening hours

The opening hours of this historical place are 24 hours of 7 days of week. But i recommend to visit it in the evening after the sun sets down and at this time you can the most beautiful pictures. The best time to visit this beautiful bridge is the spring season. In the spring of the Zayanderud river is full of water and you can see the beautiful scenery on this bridge.