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Nine-arched Bridge
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The Nine-arched Bridge (Kilenclyukú híd) in Hortobágy is one of Hungary's most famous architectural landmarks and the longest stone road bridge in historical Hungary. Built between 1827 and 1833 according to the Neoclassical designs of architect Ferenc Povolny, it replaced a dilapidated wooden structure that dated back to 1697. The bridge spans a total length of 167.3 meters across the Hortobágy River and has historically served as a vital route for cattle driving and trade across the Great Plain. Its construction utilized local limestone, and its iconic nine arches have made it a globally recognized symbol of the Hungarian Puszta. Historically, the bridge was a crucial link on the trade route connecting Debrecen with Pest, primarily used for transporting salt and livestock. Since 1999, the bridge has been part of the Hortobágy National Park UNESCO World Heritage site. Every year in August, it hosts the traditional 'Bridge Fair,' a major event featuring folk arts and crafts.
- Location: Hungary
- Top sights: Vízi színpad · Csónakázás a Hortobágy folyón · Csárda Múzeum
- Nearby: Újfehértó (48 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | 1 | 6 | 12 | 17 | 21 | 24 | 23 | 18 | 12 | 6 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 35 | 38 | 39 | 40 | 63 | 75 | 75 | 53 | 52 | 47 | 44 | 44 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Nine-arched Bridge is an open, publicly accessible monument that you can admire in all its glory from the outside at any time. It peacefully spans the Hortobágy River, providing an iconic photo opportunity in the vast Puszta.
Typical hours
Since it is an outdoor bridge, there are absolutely no official opening hours or closures of any kind. You can visit this architectural masterpiece completely freely at any time of the day or night, and in any season.
Photography
The bridge is a dream for photographers, especially during the golden hour at sunrise or sunset. Drone photography is often popular in the area, but it might require a specific permit from the national park authorities.
Time needed
A short stop to take some photographs and take a walk across the historic bridge usually only takes about 15 to 30 minutes. However, if you want to enjoy the surrounding nature, you should definitely plan for more time during your visit.
Combine with
A visit is almost always combined with an exploration of the Hortobágy National Park, traditional shepherd villages, and fascinating birdlife. The nearby traditional Csárda is good for an authentic Hungarian lunch or dinner.
Getting there
The bridge is located right on the main road that runs through the national park and is therefore very easy to find by car. There are well-signposted parking spaces for visitors in the immediate vicinity of the historic structure.
Insider tip
It is best to visit the bridge in late summer to experience the traditional Hortobágy Bridge Fair, a very colorful and lively folk festival. Be prepared for the strong winds that can blow undisturbed across the open plains.
Geography
Facts
- The total length of the bridge is exactly 167.3 meters.
- It was constructed in Neoclassical style between 1827 and 1833.
- The bridge replaced an earlier wooden structure from 1697.
- It is the longest stone bridge in the historical territory of Hungary.
- The bridge has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999.
- The structure features nine distinct arches spanning the Hortobágy River.
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 Nine-arched Bridge (8)
Hortobágyi Nemzeti Park Látogató Központ🏛 museum
Visitor centre of Hortobágy National Park. Information on nature and culture.
Hortobágyi Madárpark
Bird park in Hortobágy. Native and migratory birds of the region.
Nagy Bivalyhalom régészeti terület
Archaeological site of a large buffalo mound in Hortobágy.
Lovashintói kiállítás🏛 museum
Exhibition of horse harnesses in Hortobágy. Traditional equipment.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Nine-arched Bridge?
It is about 167 meters long, making it the longest stone bridge in Hungary.
Is it allowed to drive across the bridge?
Yes, the traffic of main road 33 still passes over this bridge today.
When was it built?
It was built between 1827 and 1833 in Classical style.
What is held at the bridge on August 20?
The famous Hortobágy Bridge Fair, which attracts large crowds.
Are there parking lots nearby?
Yes, large visitor parking lots are available in the village of Hortobágy.
Nine-arched Bridge: where is it located?
Nine-arched Bridge is located in Hungary.
Nine-arched Bridge: what is there to see?
Highlights include Vízi színpad, Csónakázás a Hortobágy folyón, Csárda Múzeum.
Nine-arched Bridge: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Nine-arched Bridge: why is it worth visiting?
The Nine-arched Bridge (Kilenclyukú híd) in Hortobágy is one of Hungary's most famous architectural landmarks and the longest stone road bridge in historical Hungary.
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Reformed Great Church of Debrecen
The symbol of Debrecen and the largest Reformed church in Hungary.
Hortobágy National Park
Hungary's largest nature reserve and a symbol of the puszta.
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Tiszadob Andrássy Castle
Fairytale-like Historicist castle on the Tisza with a labyrinth.
Church Ruin of Tiszaderzs
A medieval church ruin from the 13th century near Lake Tisza.
Nature
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Hortobagy River
The namesake river of the famous Puszta region.
Great Forest (Nagyerdő)
The 'Nagyerdő' is a city forest in Debrecen and was Hungary's first nature reserve.
Lake Fancsika
Popular fishing and recreation spot on the outskirts of Debrecen.
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Lake Vekeri
An artificial lake near Debrecen, a center for recreation.
Berettyo River
A river coming from Transylvania that defines the Bihar Plain.
Lake Tisza
Hungary's second largest lake, a man-made body of water with rich flora and fauna.
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Hortobagy Shepherd Museum
A museum showcasing the traditional lifestyle of shepherds in the Puszta.
BMW Plant Debrecen
BMW's state-of-the-art car plant, focusing on e-mobility.
University of Debrecen Main Building
The monumental main building of one of Hungary's oldest universities.
Déri Museum
A significant museum in Debrecen, famous for the Munkácsy trilogy.
Nagyerdei Culture Park
A combination of a zoo and an amusement park in the heart of the Great Forest.
Erdospusztak
A belt of forests and lakes surrounding Debrecen from the east.
Tiszafured Fishing Park
A center for sustainable fish farming and fishing tourism at Lake Tisza.
Karcag Windmill
One of the few remaining historic windmills in the Great Hungarian Plain.