Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge
Facts and practical information
Spanning the Bosphorus Strait in Turkey, the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge stands as an impressive feat of engineering and a modern landmark connecting the continents of Europe and Asia. Completed in 2016, this suspension bridge is an integral part of the Northern Marmara Motorway, designed to alleviate traffic congestion in Istanbul by providing an alternative route for transcontinental traffic.
With a main span of 1,408 meters and a total length of 2,164 meters, the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge holds the distinction of being the eighth-longest suspension bridge in the world. It is also notable for its width, accommodating eight lanes of motorway traffic and two railway lines. The bridge's towers soar to a height of 322 meters, making them some of the tallest in the world and a striking addition to the Istanbul skyline.
The bridge is named after the Ottoman Sultan Selim I (1470-1520), known as "Selim the Grim," who expanded the Ottoman Empire into the Middle East. The construction of the bridge not only serves a practical transportation purpose but also symbolizes the blend of historical significance and modern advancement in Turkey.
As an engineering marvel, the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge is designed to withstand severe natural conditions, including potential earthquakes and strong winds that are characteristic of the region. The structure has become a new attraction for visitors to Istanbul, offering panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the surrounding areas.
Istanbul