Ali Pasha Bridge: A Testament to Ottoman Engineering

Nestled in a valley a short distance from Gjirokaster's cobblestone streets, the Ali Pasha Bridge stands as a reminder of Ottoman-era ingenuity. Constructed in the early 19th century under the patronage of Ali Pasha of Tepelenë, the bridge was part of an ambitious aqueduct system designed to provide a reliable water source for the Gjirokaster Castle. At the time, the castle lacked a natural water supply, making the aqueduct crucial for its function. The aqueduct, stretching approximately 12 kilometers, transported water from Mount Sopot to the castle's cisterns. The bridge itself is an impressive structure, measuring 40 meters in length, 2.3 meters in width, and 16 meters in height. Constructed from stone, it showcases the craftsmanship of Gjirokaster's stonemasons. Edward Lear, a British poet and painter, captured the bridge's original form in his mid-19th-century painting, offering a historical glimpse of the structure. While a significant portion of the aqueduct was destroyed in 1932, the remaining section, known as the Ali Pasha Bridge, has become a popular destination for those seeking to explore beyond Gjirokaster's main attractions. The bridge is accessible via a hiking trail, approximately a 30-minute walk from Gjirokaster, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The bridge is also known as Manalat Bridge or Dunavat Bridge, named after neighborhoods of Gjirokaster.