3,300-Year-Old Mycenaean Bridge Still in Use Today: A Marvel of Ancient Engineering
ARGOLIS, GREECE – A 3,300-year-old stone bridge built during the Mycenaean era continues to serve local traffic in southern Greece, making it one of the oldest functional bridges in the world.
Known as the Arkadiko Bridge, the structure dates back to between 1300 and 1190 BCE and was originally constructed as part of a military road connecting the ancient cities of Tiryns and Epidauros. Located near the modern roadway in the region of Argolis, the bridge remains an exceptional example of prehistoric engineering.
Built using the Cyclopean masonry technique—massive, unworked limestone boulders fitted together without mortar—the Arkadiko Bridge demonstrates the sophisticated construction skills of the Mycenaean civilization. Its arch-shaped structure, with a span of approximately 2.5 meters wide, was specifically designed to accommodate chariots during the late Bronze Age.
Despite its age, the bridge remains structurally sound and is still used today by pedestrians and light vehicles. Archaeologists and civil engineers alike have marveled at the durability of its design, which has withstood earthquakes, erosion, and the passage of time without the need for modern reinforcements.
The Arkadiko Bridge is not only a significant archaeological site but also a rare example of ancient infrastructure that continues to fulfill its original function. It stands as a lasting legacy of Mycenaean architectural ingenuity and a reminder of the enduring nature of well-crafted engineering.
Authorities have called for ongoing preservation efforts to ensure that the bridge remains accessible while protecting its historical integrity. As interest in ancient infrastructure grows, the Arkadiko Bridge offers valuable insight into how early civilizations shaped the landscapes they inhabited—often with a precision and foresight that still challenges modern expectations.