Across Drina over Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge

Listed on the UNESCO Cultural Heritage list, a bridge connecting Višegrad over the Drina River is one of the most monumental pieces of architecture left from the times of the Ottoman Empire. The bridge is called Mehmed Paša Sokolović and this is its story.

Also called Old Bridge Višegrad, was built in the 16th century under the orders of Grand Vizier Mehmed Paša Sokolović as part of an endowment for the time of three sultans:  Suleiman the Magnificent, Selim II. and Murat III.

Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge, Photo: Monique Snijder

Consisting of 11 arches, the bridge spreads over a 180-meter-wide Drina River canal, and it is a masterpiece of one of the greatest architects of those times, Mimar Sinan. In the middle of this bridge, there used to be a tower that was used as a guardhouse and it had a passage underneath.

This piece of culture, throughout the years, was damaged and reconstructed several times.

Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge, Photo: Lazar Krstić

Today, the bridge is standing still as evidence of Ottoman influences across the Balkan region,  architectural and cultural values, and its geographical importance. Its significance is even highlighted in Ivo Andrić’s novel The Bridge on the Drina, which chronologically follows its development.

If you find yourself passing through this region, make sure you stop by and check it out. It is worth it. 🙂