Abkhazia is a country with a unique original culture, the inhabitants of which cherish their ancient traditions and legends. On the territory of this small state, many monuments of nature and architecture have been preserved. One of them is the Besletsky bridge, or the bridge of Queen Tamara. What is interesting about this building and who would be interested in visiting it?
The legend of the heroic construction of the bridge of Queen Tamara
Today one of the most famous bridges in Abkhazia has been studied by architects and engineers. Despite the exact establishment of a number of facts about the construction of this object, many locals still believe in the poetic legend about the appearance of the attraction. Once upon a time, enemy invaders attacked the local lands. Foreigners caused significant damage to the local cities and villages. The brave highlanders wanted to teach a lesson and drive away the offenders forever. The soldiers gathered and decided to attack the enemy from the rear. But for this, the army needed to quickly cross the stormy mountain river. According to legend, the Beslet bridge was built in one night. As materials forcreations were used: local stone and sand, as well as chicken eggs. According to the legend, the whites from 4,000 dozen eggs were needed to prepare the mortar. The bridge was successfully built, the brave warriors crossed it and defeated the enemy army.
Photo and description of the attraction
Besletsky Bridge is located within the boundaries of the modern capital of Abkhazia, the city of Sukhumi. According to the examinations of the building and historical documents, it was built in the XI-XII century. Presumably, the construction of this facility lasted 3-5 years. The bridge serves as a crossing over the Basla River. Today, this attraction is unique in its country due to its advanced age and unusual design.
Besletsky bridge is a single-span stone arch, 5 meters wide and 13 meters long. If you look at the shape of the structure from the side, you can see an upward deflection in its middle part. This is a practical solution, thanks to which even during the spring flood and the rise of water in the mouth of the river after heavy rains, the crossing retained its functionality. On the side faces of the bridge, inscriptions carved on stone have been preserved. The text is written in the ancient Georgian language, it can be translated as a Christian prayer: "Christ the Lord, ex alt in every possible way in both lives …". At the base of the bridge, you can see the letter "T" and the image of the cross.
Myths and facts
The Besletsky bridge in Abkhazia is built of limestone slabs. Despite its age and the lack of restoration, the structure is able to withstand today.load up to 8 tons. According to legend, instead of cement mortar, sand mixed with egg whites was used in the construction of the structure. Experts do not believe in the plausibility of this version. However, many experts admit that the secret of the strength and durability of the bridge may indeed lie in a secret recipe for a binder solution, which could include eggs. Today, the Beslet Bridge is recognized as a unique attraction, but it is not protected and remains available for independent inspection by tourists. Not far from it there are the ruins of watchtowers and an ancient temple.
How to get to the attraction?
If you wish, you can visit the oldest arch bridge in Abkhazia on your own, without ordering an excursion. The attraction is not guarded by anyone and is available for inspection at any time of the day. Where is the Besletsky bridge, how to get to it? From the main market of Sukhumi, you need to take the city bus 5. You need to get off at the final route, then you have to walk through the walnut grove. The road is short and pleasant, as landscapes of indescribable beauty await tourists around. Attention: it is almost impossible to drive to the bridge by private car. Even in dry weather, it is recommended to choose an SUV for a trip to this attraction.
Reviews of tourists
If during your vacation in Abkhazia you decide to visit Sukhumi, try to find time to visit the Besletsky bridge. This isa unique monument of ancient architecture, located in a picturesque place. What is especially pleasant is that it is easy to get to the sights on your own, there is no excursion fee. Nowadays, the bridge and the ruins adjacent to it look especially picturesque. The ancient masonry is entwined with boxwood and ivy, thanks to which the structure resembles a picture from a children's fairy tale book. If you want to take interesting and unusual photos on vacation, you should definitely visit the Besletsky Bridge. Abkhazia is a country with many picturesque places and interesting architectural buildings. Do not forget that the bridge is not guarded, and if you wish, you can spend a whole photo shoot near it. You can really walk along the old stone crossing. We advise you not to forget to look under your feet, as the surface of the bridge is not perfectly flat.
