The Bosphorus Bridges

The Bosphorus is a strait that runs through the heart of Istanbul, separating the European and Asian sides of the city. It is approximately 30 kilometers long and varies in width from 700 meters at its narrowest point to 3,700 meters at its widest point. The Bosphorus connects the Black Sea to the north with the Sea of Marmara to the south.

The Bosphorus is a vital waterway for Istanbul, serving as a major shipping route for goods traveling between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean. It is also a popular tourist attraction, with numerous cruises and ferry rides available for visitors to enjoy the stunning views of Istanbul's skyline and the strait.

Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, is situated on both sides of the Bosphorus strait, which connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. There are three main bridges in Istanbul that span the Bosphorus strait, connecting the European and Asian sides of the city:

Bosphorus Bridge (also known as the 15 July Martyrs Bridge): This is the oldest and most famous bridge in Istanbul. It was completed in 1973 and spans 1,560 meters. The bridge has two decks, with six lanes for vehicular traffic on the upper deck and a pedestrian walkway on the lower deck.

Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge (also known as the Second Bosphorus Bridge): This bridge was completed in 1988, and spans 1,090 meters. It is located north of the Bosphorus Bridge and provides an alternative route for vehicles traveling between the European and Asian sides of the city.

Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge (also known as the Third Bosphorus Bridge): This is the newest and longest bridge in Istanbul, completed in 2016. It spans 1,408 meters and is located to the north of the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge. The bridge has eight lanes for vehicular traffic and also includes a pedestrian and bicycle path.

These three bridges have become iconic landmarks in Istanbul, and offer stunning views of the city's skyline and the Bosphorus strait.