Built between 1599 and 1602 by Allahverdi Khan, Shah Abbas I’s Georgian-born commander-in-chief, Si-o-se-pol — “the bridge of thirty-three” — carried the great Chaharbagh avenue across the Zayandeh River towards the royal gardens. At almost 300 metres it is the longest of Isfahan’s historic bridges.
The bridge has two levels: a wide road on top, framed by walkways under a long row of arches, and a lower gallery just above the water where people sit in the shade. Its simple, rhythmic design looks most magical at night, when every arch glows golden.
The Zayandeh River is often dry for much of the year, as its water is held back upstream; when it flows — usually for a few weeks, often in spring — the whole city comes out to the riverbanks. Wet or dry, the bridge remains one of Isfahan’s favourite meeting places.
Highlights
- The 33 arches lit up at night
- The lower gallery just above the riverbed
- Evening strolls with local families
- Walking on along the river to Khaju Bridge
Gallery
