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Sanahin Bridge: A Medieval Marvel

Marvel at the Sanahin Bridge in Alaverdi, a stunning example of 12th-century Armenian engineering and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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The Sanahin Bridge, a remarkable feat of 12th-century Armenian engineering, gracefully spans the Debed River in Alaverdi. Built with basalt stones, this pedestrian bridge stands as a testament to the region's rich history and architectural prowess, connecting communities and offering scenic views of the Debed Canyon.

A brief summary to Sanahin Bridge

  • 3MX5+H2W, Alaverdi, AM
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the bridge and surrounding area are best explored on foot.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Sanahin Monastery for a comprehensive cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Alaverdi, the Sanahin Bridge is easily accessible by foot. Follow the main road towards the Debed River. The bridge is located near the town center. The walk is relatively short and offers views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Public Transport

    Local minibuses (marshrutkas) connect various points in Alaverdi. Check for routes that pass near the Debed River and the Sanahin Bridge. From the marshrutka stop, a short walk will lead you to the bridge. The cost for a short trip is approximately 100 AMD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Alaverdi. A short taxi ride from the town center to the Sanahin Bridge should cost around 500-1000 AMD. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

Unlock the Best of Sanahin Bridge

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Discover more about Sanahin Bridge

Spanning the Debed River in Alaverdi, the Sanahin Bridge is a captivating example of medieval Armenian engineering. Constructed in the late 12th century, the bridge is attributed to Queen Vaneni, the sister of Princes Ivane and Zakare Zakarians, who commissioned it in memory of her late husband. The bridge once served as the primary link to the village and monastery of Sanahin. Built from finely hewn basalt stones and fortified with lime mortar, the single-span arch bridge stretches 18.6 meters. Its width measures between 3.3 and 3.5 meters at the center, rising approximately 13.5 meters above the water level. The bridge is strategically positioned at the gorge's narrowest point, where the left bank is significantly lower than the right. High reliefs of lions, symbolizing protection, adorn the four corners of the bridge's parapet. Throughout its history, the Sanahin Bridge has undergone several renovations, with partial strengthening of the foundations in 1928-1929 under the guidance of Alexander Tamanyan. Although it was used for motor transport until the 1960s, it is now a pedestrian-only walkway. The bridge is a national monument protected by the state and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, along with the Sanahin Monastery.

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