Historic Old Bridge of Dezful – A Sassanid Architectural Marvel

Southern Iran is a region rich in history and culture. Its inhabitants are known for their warm welcome and the area is filled with impressive historical landmarks. Khuzestan province, in particular, has a long history and is home to many ancient sites.

One such site is the Old Bridge of Dezful, also referred to as the Roman or Sassanian Bridge. This grand structure is a remarkable feat of engineering and a captivating example of ancient architecture.

The History of Old Bridge of Dezful

The Old Bridge of Dezful, also known as the Sassanid Bridge, is one of the oldest bridges in the world, with a history stretching back 1,700 years. This ancient structure was constructed during the Sasanian era, around 260 AD, following the victory of Shapur I over the Roman Emperor Valerian. Shapur I commanded 70,000 Roman prisoners to build the bridge across the Dez River. To protect the bridge, a fort was erected nearby, giving rise to a neighborhood that still carries the name “Qaleh” which means fort.

Although the Romans were involved in its construction, the bridge was primarily an Iranian engineering achievement. The renowned French Archaeologist Roman Ghirshman noted that the Iranians utilized the Roman prisoners as labor rather than relying on their engineering expertise. The bridge facilitated Shapur I's military campaigns by enabling easy passage across the Dez River. The foundations were designed as dams to control the water level, allowing for strategic flooding of surrounding areas. This bridge, along with others in Shushtar and on the Karkheh River, formed a crucial communication route.

The Sassanid Bridge in Dezful stands as the most significant historical landmark in the city, to the point that Dezful(DezhPol) itself was named after this remarkable structure.

Architecture of the Old Bridge of Dezful

The Old Bridge of Dezful is one of the few ancient bridges that remained functional for vehicle traffic until recent years. However, the constant use eventually began to damage its foundations, leading to restrictions on vehicle passage to preserve this historic structure. Notably, the Sassanid Bridge in Dezful was among the first sites in Iran to be listed as a national heritage site, receiving this designation in 1931.

Despite its 1,700-year history, the bridge remains a significant tourist attraction. Its architecture reflects influences from both the Sasanian and Safavid eras. Although the original Sasanian structure has mostly disappeared, with only the foundations remaining, the bridge has undergone several renovations. During the Safavid period, the current structure was built on the remaining Sasanian foundations, and the bridge’s anticlinal arches also date back to this time. In the early Pahlavi period, under Reza Shah, the deck was reconstructed using modern materials like cement and metal after the middle spans were damaged.

Many historical records and texts mention the Old Bridge of Dezful and its architectural significance. Built using traditional materials such as brick, stone, and Sarooj—a mixture of ash, lime, wind-blown sand, crushed reeds, eggs, goat hair, and milk to enhance durability—the bridge showcases advanced construction techniques of its time. Large sandstone blocks from the Shushtar region were used, held together by metal fasteners. The bridge spans 14 arches and stretches 370 meters, linking the eastern and western parts of Dezful, and serving as a key connection between Andimeshk, Shushtar, and Dezful.

Today, visitors can stroll across the bridge, enjoying the picturesque views of the city.

Old Bridge of Dezful Location and Access

The Old Bridge of Dezful is a prominent historical landmark situated over the Dez River, located in the Old Bridge Square along Beach Street. Its exact location is between Rana Coastal Park and Valiasr Park. Locally, it is also referred to as the Andimeshk Bridge, and residents can easily direct you to it.

In addition to the Old Bridge, several other bridges span the Dez River, including the Floating Bridge and the New Dezful Bridge, the latter of which is located just a short distance from the historic structure. The area surrounding the bridge is rich in historical and water-related sites, offering additional points of interest for visitors. The nearby restaurants and the bridge’s stunning nighttime illumination create a memorable experience in this charming city of brick.

Nearby Attractions

After visiting the Old Bridge of Dezful, there are many other attractions in this ancient city that offer a delightful experience. In 1951, a new bridge was constructed for vehicular traffic, connecting the two sides of Shariati Street in Dezful. Known as Shariati Bridge, it is surrounded by a park on the banks of the Dez River, providing a relaxing spot for visitors.

Dezful is home to several historical sites, including the Suzangar House and Tizno House, both of which are noted for their architectural beauty. The Jame Mosque of Dezful stands out for its remarkable Islamic architecture, while the old bazaar, with sections like Kharatan Bazaar, Bazazan Bazaar, and Ahangaran Bazaar, retains much of its traditional charm. The tomb of Yaqub Laith Safari is another site with notable architecture.

For those interested in the cultural heritage of Dezful, the Anthropological Museum, located in the Kornasiyan Bath dating back to the Qajar period, offers insights into the traditional occupations of the region.

The surrounding villages of Dezful are also worth exploring. The stone village of Lives and the picturesque village of Pamanar are known for their stunning natural beauty. Among the natural attractions, Kol Kherson Valley, also known as Ghost Valley, and Shagaig Forest Park are highlights. The area also features Chall-Kandi Valley, Towbiroun Valley, Shevi Waterfall, and Shahiun Lake, each offering unique landscapes.

A unique attraction in Dezful is the Dezful Kats, a blend of natural and historical significance. These Kats, named after the local Dezful dialect, are cave-like structures dug near the Dez River by early inhabitants. Originally created as a means of escaping the intense heat of Khuzestan, they served as natural cooling systems.

Final Takeaway

The Old Bridge of Dezful is a remarkable relic of the Sassanian era. While the passage of time and human activity have impacted this historic structure, recent restoration efforts have ensured its preservation for future generations. A visit to this iconic bridge is a must for any traveler exploring Dezful. While the city offers many other attractions, the Old Bridge is undeniably a highlight.

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