Delal Bridge

File:Zakho, Iraq.jpg

Delal Bridge in Zakho

Delal or Pira Delal also Pirdí Delal ("The Bridge Delal" in Kurdish), informally known also as Pira Berî (Stone Bridge), is an ancient bridge in the city of Zakho, in Southern Kurdistan

The bridge is 114 metres long and 15.5 metres high.

Etymology

The name Delal is Assyrian and "Pira Delal" is Kurdish and it means "the dearest" (though not in an esthetic sense, but more of something that's unique).

The name reflects the way the bridge is seen among the local people as well as tourists.

History

Pira delal is believed to have been built during the Roman era. However, the date of construction remains uncertain.

One of the legends regarding construction of the bridge relates that the hands of the builder were amputated to ensure that the bridge would remain unique.