The bridge was commissioned by Sultan Bayezid II to replace an older, less durable crossing on the Silk Road route.
It is constructed primarily of cut stone, utilizing an arch-and-pier technique characteristic of the period.
The structure connects the banks of the Sakarya River, a waterway historically vital for trade and military logistics in the region.
The town surrounding the bridge was originally named Doğançay but was rebranded to commemorate General Ali Fuat Cebesoy, who is buried in a nearby mausoleum.
The restoration process involved cleaning the limestone blocks and reinforcing the foundation to mitigate the impact of river erosion.
The Alifuatpaş Bridge, also known as the Stone Bridge (Taşköprü), is a historic Ottoman-era structure spanning the Sakarya River in the Geyve district of Sakarya, Türkiye. Constructed in 1495 by Sultan Bayezid II, the bridge features five distinct arches designed to withstand the river's seasonal flow. It historically served as a critical crossing point on the road between Istanbul and Anatolia. The bridge underwent significant restoration in the 21st century to preserve its structural integrity and stone masonry. It is situated in the town of Alifuatpaşa, which was renamed in honor of the Turkish War of Independence commander Ali Fuat Cebesoy. The site remains a protected heritage asset reflecting late 15th-century hydraulic engineering.
The riverbank on the eastern side of the bridge offers the best perspective of the full length of the five arches.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Ali Fuat Cebesoy Museum to learn about local military history.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes as the area near the riverbanks can be uneven.
Visit during the early morning to catch the reflection of the stone arches on the river surface.
Do not attempt to climb onto the bridge parapets or masonry for photos, as the stone surfaces can be slippery and unstable.
