The Old Bridge in Sisak is a symbol of the city that has connected the banks of the Kupa River for decades

In a city that grew alongside three rivers, few structures symbolize Sisak as strongly as the Old Bridge over the Kupa River. Yesterday, it celebrated its 92nd birthday, and even after nearly a century of existence, it remains one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, a place of meetings, walks, photography, and everyday life for the people of Sisak.

Old bridge in Sisak Photo: iascic Depositphotos

The Old Bridge was officially opened on May 6, 1934, according to the design of engineer Milivoj Frković, while its construction lasted almost nine years. It was built next to an old wooden bridge that could no longer meet the needs of the rapidly growing city. During the period between the two world wars, Sisak was developing quickly, and the new bridge represented an important infrastructural achievement that connected the Old and New parts of Sisak while allowing safer traffic across the Kupa River.

What makes it different from most Croatian bridges is its architectural elegance. Although built from concrete, its visible surfaces were shaped with brick and carved stone, which is why the bridge still appears monumental and refined today. Its large arches above the Kupa, richly designed pillars, decorative fence, and details along the edges give it an appearance more commonly associated with European cities than with the industrial center Sisak was at the beginning of the 20th century. This is precisely why many experts consider the Old Bridge one of the most beautiful bridges in Croatia.

Including its access ramps, the bridge is around 400 meters long and consists of seven vaulted openings. A special feature of the bridge is its spiral staircases and access corridors that allow pedestrians to reach it from both sides of the riverbank. Its silhouette has appeared on postcards, photographs, and artistic depictions of Sisak for decades, and it is difficult to imagine the city’s skyline without its arches rising above the Kupa River.

However, the Old Bridge was never just a silent observer of everyday city life. It survived wars, floods, and earthquakes, including the devastating earthquake that struck the Banovina region at the end of 2020. The bridge suffered serious damage at the time, but after restoration, it was reopened to traffic precisely on the occasion of its 90th anniversary, which carried strong symbolism for many residents of Sisak.

Old bridge in Sisak Photo: dbajurin Depositphotos

Today, 92 years after its opening, the Old Bridge remains far more than a traffic crossing. It is a place where people stop to look at the Kupa River, photograph the sunset, or simply feel the rhythm of the city. Generations of Sisak residents crossed it on their way to school, work, first dates, and journeys back home. That is why its birthday is not only a reminder of the year it was built, but also of all the stories that have passed beneath its stone arches over nearly an entire century.