Khaju Bridge

Khaju Bridge (Persian: پل خواجو), another masterpiece of Persian architecture, spans the Zayandeh River in Isfahan, Iran. It was built around 1650 during the reign of Shah Abbas II. Unlike the Si-o-se-pol, the Khaju has two levels of terraces for pedestrians and is adorned with beautiful tilework and paintings, making it a notable example of Safavid dynasty architecture.

This bridge serves multiple purposes: it is a dam, a bridge, and a social gathering place. The lower level of the bridge can be closed off by sluice gates to raise the level of the river upstream, thus serving as a dam. The upper level is composed of a central passageway flanked by two rows of arcades for pedestrians. The niches and seating areas along the bridge were used for public meetings, and it was a common place for the Shah to relax and enjoy the view.

Khaju Bridge is particularly renowned for its acoustic properties and the harmonious sounds created by the flow of water - an aspect that was deliberately incorporated into its design. It is not just a utilitarian structure but also a cultural and recreational space that reflects the sophisticated urban planning and the social and cultural life of the Safavid period. Today, it remains a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike, a place where the gentle murmur of the river and the echoes of history blend into a serene experience.