The Dadali Bridge (Sharp Bridge) over the Arpa River

The 13th-century Dadali Bridge, also known as the “Sharp Bridge”, stands in the Vayots Dzor province of Armenia, over the Arpa River opposite the town of Yeghegnadzor. The photograph shows the bridge’s single pointed arch with the river flowing beneath it. Trees grow on both banks.

The arched form of the bridge is unique and is not found in any other bridge in Armenia. It was built of basalt stone with a mixture containing eggs. Little is known about the bridge. According to local legend, an Armenian prince built it so that he could easily reach his palace on the other bank of the river. Legends also say that the bridge was used by travellers and merchants of the Great Silk Road.

Until recently, local people used it to cross from one community to another. Today the bridge has the status of a cultural heritage monument.