The Arching Red Bridge, known as Synyq Köprüsü in Azerbaijan, spans the Hrami River in the border region between Georgia and Azerbaijan, specifically within the Gazakh district. This bridge is situated along the Tbilisi-Ganja road. In Azerbaijan, it is referred to as “Synyq Köprüsü,” meaning “Broken Bridge,” indicating that it was built on the site of a previous structure. In neighboring Georgia, it is known as “Tsiteli Khidi,” which translates to “Red Bridge.”
Historical records confirm the existence of a bridge at this location as far back as the 12th century, with remnants of its foundations still visible downstream. The current bridge was constructed in the 17th century during the reign of the Georgian king Rostom. Its brick arch masonry and decorative design closely resemble those of earlier Iranian bridges. In 1647, the bridge underwent reconstruction and remained in use until 1998, when it was abandoned following the construction of a more convenient and wider overpass as part of the TRACECA program.
The term “red” in the bridge’s Georgian name derives from the color of the burnt bricks used in its construction. The historical bridge, Synyq Köprüsü, also lends its name to the customs and border checkpoint located on the Azerbaijani side of the border.
Several years ago, restoration work was carried out on this medieval structure, culminating in completion by the end of 2019. As part of the renovation efforts, the caravanserais at the base of the Red Bridge were restored, the arches and supporting walls of the structure were reinforced, and the historical exterior of Synyq Köprüsü was meticulously revived.