Copy in clipboard...
Major restoration project underway for Zamankhan Bridge
Heydar Sadeghi, the Director General of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province, stated that the project was officially handed over to a contractor during a ceremony attended by provincial and local officials. The attendees included representatives from the Regional Water Company and the Saman Municipality, and the ceremony was held with the full support of the Saman governor, chtn.ir wrote.
He further emphasized that the restoration efforts are part of broader cultural heritage, tourism, and handicrafts programs, all of which are aimed at preserving and protecting historic monuments for future generations. He noted that the bridge had suffered significant damage in recent years due to hydraulic issues and the strong, relentless currents of the water flowing beneath it. These natural forces caused some of the surrounding stones to collapse, which in turn resulted in considerable structural damage to this valuable historical edifice.
Over the past two years, comprehensive studies and a detailed restoration plan for the Zamankhan Bridge were developed in close collaboration with the University of Isfahan. Following thorough expert reviews and technical assessments, the plan was officially approved by both the provincial technical council and the technical council of the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts. Once approved, the plan was formally communicated and put into action. The contractor selection process was carried out through a public tender, and the necessary funds were provided from the social responsibilities budget of the Ministry of Oil.
Sadeghi confirmed that the restoration project is expected to be completed within a six-month timeframe. He expressed his sincere hope that the restoration of the historic Zamankhan Bridge in Saman would be successfully finished on schedule, thanks to the active participation of the private sector and the rigorous oversight provided by all relevant executive bodies.
Located in the Shahrekord region, the Zamankhan Bridge is one of the historic bridges built over the Zayandeh Rud River during the Safavid era. The bridge measures 30 meters in length and features two spans of unequal length — a unique and remarkable architectural characteristic that distinguishes it from other bridges of its time. The bridge rests on three sturdy stone piers and is situated in a pleasant, mild climate, surrounded by stunning natural scenery that includes lush orchards filled with various trees, local rice paddies, and the clear, flowing, pristine waters of the Zayandeh Rud, all of which create an unforgettable and picturesque environment.
The Zamankhan Bridge is recognized as one of the most important historical monuments in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province, and it currently attracts a large number of tourists who come to admire its historical significance and natural beauty. The bridge was originally built by the Safavids to help people cross the Zayandeh Rud River safely and prevent them from drowning. Today, however, it serves primarily as a historical and tourist attraction. The fame of this bridge has grown so significantly in recent years that during peak travel seasons, one can see many tourists visiting Zamankhan for sightseeing and recreation.
It may be of interest to know that the Zamankhan Bridge is considered a national heritage site. The bridge has been officially registered on Iran’s National Heritage List. Furthermore, after the famous Si-o-Se-Pol and Khaju bridges in Isfahan, it is regarded as the most significant Safavid-era bridge ever built over the Zayandeh Rud River.