Band-e Caesar, also known as Shadravan Bridge, stands as a remarkable example of ancient engineering and cultural exchange between Persia and Rome. Located in Shushtar, this historic bridge-dam was built by Roman prisoners of war, including engineers and soldiers captured by Shapur I, the second king of the Sassanid Empire, after his victory over the Roman Emperor Valerian in 260 AD. Though only remnants of the structure survive today, its legacy endures as a symbol of ingenuity and resilience.
Band-e Caesar was a vital water management and transportation structure in ancient Shushtar. Commissioned by Shapur I, the bridge was built using the skills of captured Roman engineers, who were renowned for their expertise in constructing robust communication and defense infrastructure.
Historical accounts suggest that the project lasted about three years, a detail immortalized in the Shahnameh by Ferdowsi. The bridge, constructed from regular cut stones joined with metal fasteners, played a crucial role in connecting the two sides of the Karun River and supplying water to the region.
Over the centuries, the bridge was restored several times, with one of the most notable restorations occurring during the Qajar period. It is considered one of the most valuable and influential architectural remnants of the Sassanid era and a key component of the Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Band-e Caesar is often celebrated as one of the world’s earliest known industrial structures. This unique dam-bridge hybrid not only facilitated transportation but also regulated water flow for irrigation and urban use.
The structure was built using Sarooj mortar (a traditional Iranian water-resistant mixture) and riprap stone, materials known for their exceptional durability, especially when exposed to water. The strength of Sarooj increased upon contact with water—a feature that contributed to the bridge’s longevity.
The bridge featured two convex arches that directed water flow eastward and a concave arch that managed reverse water flow. These forms leveraged the natural bed of the river, blending architectural design with environmental adaptation.
Though partially destroyed, the remaining sections of the bridge continue to reflect the sophistication of ancient Persian hydraulic engineering and the influence of Roman construction techniques.
Band-e Caesar is part of the larger Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System, which is open to visitors throughout the year. The best times to visit are during spring (March to May) and early autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and the Karun River flows more vibrantly. Daily visiting hours typically run from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; however, it’s advisable to check local tourism offices for the most up-to-date information.
Learn more about Band-e Caesar and the Shushtar Hydraulic System on the official UNESCO World Heritage website.
