Si-o-Se-pol, a wonder of Safavid era
Si-o-Se-Pol is a bridge of Isfahan which in its kind is a unique masterpiece of Shah Abbas I monarchy was built on the cost and supervision of his famous commander, Allah-Verdi-khan. The bridge is about 300 meters long and 14 meters wide and is the longest bridge over Zayandeh Rood. This bridge is one of the architectural wonders of Iran and the world.
Si-o-Se-pol in the Persian language means 33 bridges. Some experts believe that the 33 is a figure of Anahita, the goddess of water and therefore this bridge was actually a symbol of her.
In Safavid era, Nowruz ceremony (Persian new year) was celebrated alongside this bridge. During those days, the bridge was illuminated by the order of the king.
Three major types of materials were used to make this bridge: the stone for the lower parts and mortar and plaster for the upper parts. The foundation of this bridge is made to increase its moisture, durability, and strength and that is why in the long run, water can’t hurt it.
It is interesting to know that Si-o-Se-pol has 99 beautiful windows and sitting on one of these windows is a truly unique experience. “Man does not expect to travel to Iran to see what can be called the most magnificent bridge in the world.” Sir Percy Sykes, a British diplomat, and scholar said about Si-o-Se-pol in his journey in Iran.
