The reason the bridge was not rebuilt in the same manner lies in its strong construction. The supports beneath the water remained firmly fixed even after the fire had stopped. They were so solid and deeply fastened that removing them would have required great effort and time. Because of this difficulty, rebuilding the bridge in its original form was not considered practical.
This bridge played an important role in military movement. Through it, the Turkish forces passed into Hungary. It was at this location that the unfortunate Hungarian king once hoped to stop the advancing Ottoman army. Sadly, his attempt failed, and the Turkish forces continued their march Lakes of Hungary and Their Importance.
Military Efforts to Stop the Ottoman Advance
Later, Count Serini undertook a long and difficult march with the goal of destroying the same bridge. His intention was to prevent supplies from reaching the Vizier, who was stationed with his army in other parts of the region. By cutting off this vital route, Serini hoped to weaken the Ottoman forces and slow their progress.
Although these efforts showed courage and careful planning, the bridge continued to serve as a key passage for military movement. This example shows how important bridges were in controlling access to Hungary and nearby territories.
Ancient Bridges on the Danube
Just as many bridges existed over the upper Danube, so too were there several bridges in ancient times over the lower part of the river, which was often called the Istrian section. These bridges were mentioned by early historians and writers, showing their importance even in ancient history.
Darius, the King of Persia, is said to have built a bridge of boats over one of the mouths of the Ister, known as Sacrum. This achievement demonstrated early engineering skill and military organization. It allowed large armies to cross wide rivers, something that was considered remarkable at the time.
Stone Bridges of the Byzantine Period
The historian Nicephorus records that a stone bridge was later built over the same river. This shows that rulers continued to improve river crossings as technology and resources advanced. Stone bridges offered greater strength and permanence than bridges of boats, though they required much more labor and planning.
The Great Bridge of Emperor Hadrian
The most remarkable and admirable bridge over the Danube was built by Emperor Hadrian. This bridge was later described and praised by the historian Dion. Even today, some ruins of this great structure can still be seen near Severin, about twenty Roman miles from Belgrade Sofia Sightseeing.
This bridge was an extraordinary work of engineering. It consisted of twenty massive pillars made of square stone. Each pillar rose one hundred feet above the water, not including the foundation below. The pillars were sixty feet wide, and the space between each one measured one hundred and seventy feet.
These pillars were connected by strong arches, forming a continuous roadway across the river. The scale of this construction was unmatched in its time and amazed all who saw it. It stood as a symbol of Roman power, skill, and ambition.
Historical Importance of the Bridge
The bridge of Hadrian was not only a marvel of engineering but also a strategic structure. It allowed troops, supplies, and travelers to move easily across the Danube. This helped the Roman Empire maintain control over its northern territories.
Although much of the bridge has been destroyed by time, its remains still remind us of the great efforts made by ancient civilizations to overcome natural obstacles. These bridges shaped history by influencing trade, warfare, and communication.
From wooden supports burned in war to massive stone pillars built by emperors, the bridges over the Danube tell a powerful story. They reveal how vital river crossings were to kings, armies, and empires. Even in ruin, these bridges continue to speak of strength, strategy, and human ingenuity.
