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Arslanagić Bridge
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The Arslanagić Bridge, located in the scenic town of Trebinje, is a masterpiece of classical Ottoman bridge architecture and one of the most significant historical monuments in Herzegovina. It was constructed in 1574 on the orders of the powerful Grand Vizier Mehmed Pasha Sokolović, allegedly in memory of his son who fell in battle. Spanning the emerald Trebišnjica River, the bridge is distinguished by its elegant design, featuring two large and two smaller semi-circular arches resting on massive stone pillars. Originally, the structure was located about five kilometers upstream. However, due to the construction of a hydroelectric dam system and the subsequent flooding of the valley in 1965, the entire bridge was dismantled stone by stone in an unprecedented engineering feat. It was finally meticulously reconstructed at its current, safe location near the city center in 1972.
- Location: Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Top sights: Arslanagić Bridge · Noria · Maltese's wheel
- Nearby: Bileća (19 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 4 | 5 | 8 | 12 | 16 | 20 | 24 | 24 | 19 | 14 | 10 | 6 |
| Rain mm | 156 | 152 | 138 | 103 | 89 | 67 | 42 | 43 | 116 | 138 | 187 | 178 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The bridge is a pedestrian bridge open to the public at all times. You can walk across and admire the architecture.
Typical hours
No restricted hours as it is an open public bridge. Best visited during daylight for clear views of the stonework.
Photography
Photography is unrestricted from the bridge and the riverbank. Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful reflections on the water.
Time needed
Crossing the bridge takes just a few minutes, but allow 20-30 minutes to take photos and read the information plaque. Combined with the old town, plan 1-2 hours.
Combine with
Combine with a walk through Trebinje's old town and the Hercegovačka Gračanica monastery. Also visit the nearby Tvrdiš monastery.
Getting there
The bridge is located in the center of Trebinje, easily reachable on foot. If driving, there is parking near the old town gate.
Insider tip
Look for the stone marks indicating the original numbering from the reconstruction. Cross it at dusk for a romantic ambiance.
Geography
Facts
- Built in 1574 by Grand Vizier Sokollu Mehmed Pasha.
- The bridge is 92.5 meters long.
- It has two large and five smaller arches.
- In 1965, the bridge was dismantled due to the construction of the Grančarevo hydroelectric power plant.
- It was moved stone by stone to a new location between 1970 and 1972.
- It was originally located 5 km upstream from its current location.
- Named after an Ottoman agha who had the right to collect the toll.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Arslanagić Bridge (10)
Maltese's wheel
Art gallery Bokić
🌐 galerijabokic.com🕒 Mo-Su 10:00-15:00
Muzej Hercegovine🏛 museum
Sultan Ahmedova džamija
Osman Pasha Mosque
Cathedral of the Birth of Mary
TO FIGHTERS FALLEN IN THE FIGHT AGAINST FASCISM
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is this bridge located?
It is located in Trebinje and spans the Trebišnjica River.
When was it built?
The bridge was built in the 16th century (approx. 1574) during the Ottoman era.
Was the bridge moved?
Yes, in the 1970s it was moved stone by stone to a new location to save it from flooding.
Can vehicles drive across the bridge?
No, the bridge is now strictly for pedestrians.
Is the bridge lit up at night?
Yes, it is beautifully illuminated at night and makes for a great photo opportunity.
Arslanagić Bridge: where is it located?
Arslanagić Bridge is located in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Arslanagić Bridge: what is there to see?
Highlights include Arslanagić Bridge, Noria, Maltese's wheel.
Arslanagić Bridge: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Arslanagić Bridge: why is it worth visiting?
The Arslanagić Bridge, located in the scenic town of Trebinje, is a masterpiece of classical Ottoman bridge architecture and one of the most significant historical monuments in Herzegovina.
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History & landmarks
Nature
Trebišnjica River
The Trebišnjica is one of the longest sinking rivers in the world, defining the karst landscape of Herzegovina.
Bileća Lake
An artificial lake on the Trebišnjica River in southern Herzegovina.
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More places
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Hercegovačka Gračanica
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Hrastov Do Necropolis
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