Band-e Caesar
The Band-e Caesar Bridge, also known as Shadravan Bridge, was constructed by Roman soldiers and engineers who were captured by Shapur I, along with Roman Emperor Valerian, in 260 AD. The bridge was once used by people to cross the Karun River safely. However, much of the Shadarvan bridge has been destroyed over time and only a few remnants of the old bridge remain.
History
The Band-e Caesar bridge was a crucial water supply route for the ancient city. It is one of the most valuable structures from the Sasanian era and an integral part of the impressive collection of water structures in Shushtar. According to historical records, Shapur I, the second king of the Sassanid Empire, ordered the construction of this bridge. The Romans were known for their expertise in constructing communication bridges, and after defeating them, Shapur I captured their emperor Valerian and forced him to build the Caesar Dam. The bridge was constructed with regular cut stones and connected using metal fasteners. The construction of the Band-e Caesar took three years, as mentioned in Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh. This bridge connects the two sides of Shushtar city and has been restored multiple times throughout history, with the most famous restoration taking place during the Qajar period.
Bridge engineering
The Shadervan Bridge along with other complexes in Shushtar, is world-renowned for being the first human-made industrial structure. The bridge was built using Sarooj mortar and riprap which was known for its high resistance to water impact. Interestingly, the mortar’s endurance increased when it came into contact with water. The Shadarvan bridge has two convex arches that face the water flow towards the east and a concave arch that faces the direction of the water flow. Although the arches are formed by the natural bed of the river, this dam bridge can still be considered an arch dam.
