
Turkey has unveiled the 1915 Çanakkale Bridge, now the world’s longest suspension bridge. Spanning 2,023 meters, this architectural marvel stretches across the Dardanelles Strait, seamlessly connecting the European and Asian sides of the country.
Prior to the bridge’s construction, travelers relied on a 90-minute ferry ride to cross the Dardanelles Strait. With the inauguration of the 1915 Çanakkale Bridge, this journey has been reduced to a mere six minutes, cutting travel time by an impressive 93%.

The bridge’s design is rich in symbolism. Its name, “1915,” commemorates a significant Ottoman victory during World War I, a pivotal event leading to the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923. The main span of 2,023 meters honors the centenary of the Turkish Republic in 2023. Additionally, the bridge’s towers reach a height of 318 meters, symbolizing March 18, the day Turkey honors soldiers lost during the Gallipoli campaign.
This engineering marvel surpasses Japan’s Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, which held the previous record since 1998 with a main span of 1,991 meters. The 1915 Çanakkale Bridge extends 32 meters beyond its Japanese counterpart, setting a new benchmark in suspension bridge construction.

Constructed at a cost of $2.7 billion, the bridge is expected to yield substantial economic benefits. Estimates suggest it will save Turkey approximately $4.15 billion over the next decade by enhancing transportation efficiency and fostering regional connectivity.
The 1915 Çanakkale Bridge stands as a testament to Turkey’s commitment to advancing infrastructure and bridging continents. By facilitating rapid transit between Europe and Asia, it not only honors historical events but also paves the way for future economic growth and cultural exchange.