Mes Bridge

The bridge rests on river boulders, giving it a characteristically asymmetric silhouette – builders worked around large rocks in the riverbed, causing the structure to shift slightly off its longitudinal axis. The masonry consists of round river stones and stone slabs laid without mortar. The central arch was built first, along with one adjacent arch, followed by 11 side arches to protect against flooding. The walkway is 3.4 m wide, paved with vertically set stone slabs that create a step-like effect on the inclines.

The best photo spots are from the downstream bank, where all 13 arches are visible. In spring, the Kir River water has a turquoise tint and the bridge looks particularly striking. In July–August the river often dries up. A modern road bridge runs parallel nearby, which somewhat detracts from the view, but can be excluded from photos with the right angle.

Locals swim in the river near the bridge during warmer months. The village of Mes has a few small cafés. A few kilometres up the valley lies Drisht Castle, which can be combined into a visit.

Length – 108 m with 13 arches, the longest surviving Ottoman bridge in Albania

Central arch – 21.5 m span, 15 m above the riverbed

Built – around 1770, commissioned by Kara Mahmud Bushati, Ottoman pasha of Shkodër

Materials – river stones and stone slabs laid without mortar

Status – Category I Cultural Monument of Albania

Restoration – the Albanian Development Fund invested 13 million ALL to provide tourist access

The bridge was built around 1770 by order of Kara Mahmud Bushati (Mehmet Pasha Bushatli), the Ottoman governor of Shkodër. It connected the city with the highland areas of Drisht and Cukali, serving the Shkodër–Kosovo trade route that had existed since pre-Roman times. Construction took place in two phases: first the central arch and three adjacent ones, then – when floodwaters began bypassing the structure – nine more arches were added (five on the left, four on the right). The masons came from Dibra, a region known for its skilled stoneworkers.

Over 250 years, the bridge was repeatedly damaged by floods but restored each time. In the early 21st century, the Albanian Development Fund invested 13 million ALL in improving approaches and pedestrian access. Today the bridge has Category I cultural monument status and is one of the most photographed landmarks in the Shkodër region.

From central Shkodër (8 km, 15 min):

– Taxi: 500–700 ALL (~€5–7), driver can wait

– Bicycle: 20–25 min on a quiet road through villages (rentals at Shkodër hotels)

– On foot: about 1.5 hours

– Public transport is limited – arrange a return taxi in advance

From Tirana (110 km, 2.5 hours):

– Bus to Shkodër: from 400 ALL (~€4), then taxi

– Car rental: convenient to combine with Rozafa Castle and the Lead Mosque

On-site:

From the parking area to the bridge is a 2–3 minute walk. The road is signposted.

Season: April–June – the river is full and the water has a turquoise tint. Autumn (September–October) is also good. In July–August the river often dries up.

Time of day: early morning or golden hour before sunset for the best light.

Duration: 20–40 minutes for the walk and photos.

Avoid: July–August if you want to see water under the bridge. Tourist peak is mornings during summer.