The ancient bridge of Arkadiko

The Arkadiko Bridge, also known as the Bridge to the Barracks, is one of the oldest arch bridges in the world. It was built during the Mycenaean civilization and is a direct testament to the engineering skills of the Bronze Age. In ancient times, this bridge was part of an important road connecting the cities of Argos, Tiryns, and Epidaurus, and it has survived to this day in almost its original form. The arch bridge was built of limestone using the false vault and cyclopean masonry techniques. It is about 22 meters long, 5.6 meters wide at the base, and about 4 meters high. The roadway, approximately 2.5 meters wide, was designed for chariots. Special guide curbs that kept the chariots on the correct trajectory have survived to this day. The height of the culvert arch reaches one meter. The bridge design includes flat lower platforms that reinforce the arch walls and protect the structure from water erosion. The bridge was built at the end of the Late Helladic period, approximately 1300-1190 BC. Nearby are three more similar bridges, built using the same technology and dating from the same period. Local residents still use these bridges, which clearly confirms their exceptional strength and successful engineering design. The Arkadiko Bridge has survived millennia and numerous earthquakes, but has retained its functionality. The bridge got its second name from the ruins of the ancient Acropolis of Kazarma, located nearby.