The 15 July Martyrs Bridge, also known as the Bosphorus Bridge, is a suspension bridge that spans across the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul, Turkey. The bridge connects the European and Asian sides of Istanbul and is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city.
The bridge was completed in 1973 and was the first bridge to connect the two continents of Europe and Asia since the Roman Empire. It was named the Bosphorus Bridge until 2016 when it was renamed in honor of the victims of the failed coup attempt on July 15, 2016.
The bridge is 1.5 kilometers long and has a width of 39 meters. It has two levels, with the upper level being used for vehicular traffic and the lower level being used for railway traffic. The bridge can accommodate up to 200,000 vehicles per day and is an important transportation link between the two sides of Istanbul.
The 15 July Martyrs Bridge offers stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait and the city of Istanbul. It is particularly beautiful at night when it is illuminated with colorful lights. The bridge has become a popular spot for tourists and locals alike to take photos and enjoy the views.
The bridge has also played an important role in Turkish history. It was closed to traffic during the 1999 earthquake in Istanbul and was used as a makeshift hospital for the injured. It was also the site of a peaceful protest in 2013 against the government's plans to build a shopping mall in a nearby park.
Overall, the 15 July Martyrs Bridge is a symbol of Istanbul's history, culture, and resilience. It is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city and is a testament to the engineering and architectural achievements of Turkey.
