Abkhazia is a country with a unique distinctive culture, the inhabitants of which reverently keep their ancient traditions and traditions. On the territory of this small state many monuments of nature and architecture have been preserved. One of them is the Besletian bridge, or the bridge of Queen Tamara. What is interesting about this building and who will be interested in visiting it?
The legend of the heroic structure of Queen Tamara’s bridge
Today one of the most famous bridges of Abkhazia is studied by architects and engineers. Despite the precise establishment of a series of facts about the construction of this object, many locals still believe in a poetic legend about the appearance of the attraction. Once upon a time, enemy invaders attacked local lands. Foreigners caused significant damage to the local cities and villages. The brave highlanders wanted to teach a lesson and forever drive offenders. The warriors gathered and decided to attack the enemy from the rear. But for this army it was necessary to quickly cross a stormy mountain river. According to legend, the Beslet bridge was built in one night. As materials for its creation were used: local stone and sand, as well as chicken eggs. According to legend, for the preparation of a mortar, proteins from 4000 dozens of eggs were needed. The bridge was successfully built, brave warriors crossed it and defeated the enemy army.
Photo and description of the attraction
Besletsky bridge is located within the modern capital of Abkhazia, the city of Sukhumi. According to the building expertise and historical documents, it was erected in the XI-XII century.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 for its country because of its venerable age and unusual design.
The Besletian 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 the deflection up in its middle part. This is a practical solution, thanks to which even during the spring flood and the rise of water at the mouth of the river after heavy rains, the ferry retained its functionality. On the side faces of the bridge, letters carved on stone have been preserved. The text is written in the ancient Georgian language, it can be translated as a Christian prayer: "Christ is the lord, exalt 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 Besletian bridge in Abkhazia is built of limestone slabs. Despite its age and lack of restoration, the design is able to withstand today a load of 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 recognize that the secret of the strength and durability of the bridge can 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 at the same time it is not guarded and remains accessible for independent inspection by tourists. Not far from it there are ruins of watch towers and an ancient temple.
How to get to the sights?
If you want to visit the oldest arch bridge in Abkhazia, you can do it yourself 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 Beslet 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 on the final route, then you will have to walk through the walnut grove. The road is short and pleasant, as landscapes of indescribable beauty await around tourists. Attention: it is almost impossible to get to the bridge with your personal car. Even in dry weather, it is recommended to choose an SUV for a trip to this attraction.
Tourists reviews
If during your vacation in Abkhazia you decide to visit Sukhumi, try to find time to visit the Beslet bridge. This is a unique monument of ancient architecture, located in a picturesque place. What is especially nice - to get to the sights is easy on their own, there is no excursion fee. Today, the bridge and its neighboring ruins look especially picturesque. The old masonry is entwined with boxwood and ivy, so that the structure resembles a picture from a children's fairy-tale book. If you want to make interesting and unusual photos on vacation, you should definitely visit the Beslet bridge. Abkhazia is a country in which there are many picturesque places and interesting architectural buildings. Do not forget that the bridge is not guarded, and if desired, a whole photo shoot can be held near it. Walking on an old stone crossing is really possible. We advise you not to forget to look under your feet, since the surface of the bridge does not differ in perfect evenness.