Find out where is the oldest bridge in the world

It was in the Middle East, which today is best known for the frequent armed conflicts, where the first cities to be recorded appeared. One is Girsu, now called Tell Telloh and located between Baghdad and Basra in Iraq. At least 5 millennia old, the site became the capital of the kingdom of Lagash, a sacred metropolis that was founded in devotion to the Sumerian hero Ningirsu.

It was in this city that, for the first time, the main evidences of the existence of the Sumerian civilization were discovered, characterized by plates with economic, administrative and commercial records, made through the cuneiform writing. In addition to this precious material for the history of mankind, a brick bridge was discovered, which to date is the oldest ever recorded, with 4, 000 years old.

Careless archaeologists

This megasite was discovered by two French archaeologists in 1877. Unfortunately, at the time, excavation techniques were not as advanced, and modern preservation methods did not yet exist, with the carelessness of explorers compromising relevant details of the find.

Along with this, treasure hunters plundered much of the plaques and other artifacts, which were sold to collectors around the world. Archaeologists recorded the existence of 4, 000 registration plates, but today it is estimated that the site housed a total of 40, 000 pieces, whose whereabouts are unknown.

The Girsu Bridge

The structure of the bridge was discovered in 1920, but at first archaeologists found it difficult to understand why it was built, suggesting that it could have functioned as a dam, a temple, or a water flow regulation system. Only recently have the ruins been characterized as a bridge over an ancient watercourse.

Since excavations began 1 century ago, the bridge has been exposed to atmospheric aggression without any conservation effort. The site is currently under the responsibility of the British Museum, which through British government resources uses the site to train Iraqi archaeologists in cultural heritage management and practical field skills development. The next step will be the bridge restoration performed during the training.

***

Do you know the Mega Curioso newsletter? Weekly, we produce exclusive content for lovers of the biggest curiosities and bizarres of this big world! Register your email and do not miss this way to keep in touch!