Devil’s Bridge (Dyavolski Most)
Kardzhali
Devil’s Bridge, known locally as Dyavolski Most, is a remarkable stone arch bridge spanning the Arda River in a narrow gorge in the Rhodope Mountains of southern-central Bulgaria. Built between 1515 and 1518 by the Bulgarian master builder Dimitar under the orders of Sultan Selim I, it replaced an earlier Roman bridge that connected the Thracian lowlands with the Aegean Sea coast. The bridge is 56 meters long and 3.5 meters wide, featuring three arches including a central arch 11.5 meters high. Its design includes small semicircular openings on the side arches that serve to regulate water flow. Preserved stone parapets and strategically placed breakwaters protect the structure. The bridge is enveloped in local folklore, including tales of a pact between the master builder and the devil to complete the construction within 40 days. Today, it stands as the largest and best-known medieval bridge in the Rhodopes and is a designated cultural monument. It also forms part of the international hiking route known as the Sultans Trail, attracting visitors who appreciate both its engineering and scenic mountain surroundings.
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Tip: The best time to visit Devil’s Bridge is late morning between 11:00 and 12:00 when the bridge and its reflection form a near-perfect circle on the Arda River, a phenomenon linked to local legends. Visitors are advised to plan their trip during spring to autumn for favorable weather and to check for any restoration works or access updates. Although entry is free, purchasing guided tours or joining hiking groups on the Sultans Trail can enrich the experience. Nearby picnic and rest areas provide convenient spots for relaxation. Advance planning is recommended during peak tourist seasons to avoid crowds and ensure parking availability.
Interesting facts
- •The bridge features special semicircular holes on its arches designed to allow water to flow through during floods, reducing pressure on the structure.
- •Local legend claims that the master builder Dimitar made a pact with the devil to complete the bridge in 40 days, after which he mysteriously died.
- •Between 11:00 and 12:00 noon, the bridge and its reflection form a perfect circle on the river’s surface, said to reveal the devil’s face.
- •One of the stones reportedly bears the imprint of the devil’s footprint, according to folklore.
- •The bridge is part of the international Sultans Trail hiking route linking Ardino and Kardzhali.
History
Devil’s Bridge was constructed in the early 16th century (1515-1518) by master builder Dimitar by order of Ottoman Sultan Selim I to restore an ancient route connecting Thrace with the Aegean coast.
It replaced a Roman bridge that had fallen into disrepair.
Over centuries, it has been preserved as a vital crossing and cultural monument, officially declared as such in 1984.
The bridge has undergone restoration efforts, including significant road improvements nearby in 2013, ensuring continued access and preservation of its historical integrity.
Place Guide
Main Arch and Side Arches1515-1518
The bridge’s three stone arches include a central arch rising 11.5 meters high, with side arches featuring semicircular openings that regulate water flow and prevent flood damage.
Stone Parapets and Breakwaters1515-1518
A preserved 12 cm tall stone parapet lines the edges of the bridge, while breakwaters are positioned opposite the current to protect the structure from erosion.
Surrounding Gorge and Scenic Views
The bridge is situated at 420 meters above sea level in a gorge flanked by steep slopes reaching up to 800 meters, offering picturesque views and natural beauty.
