The magical Mesi Bridge is one of Albania’s most treasured cultural monuments, standing gracefully across the crystalline waters of the Kir River. Built in the early 18th century during the Ottoman era, the bridge connects the village of Mes, where it gets its name, with the historic city of Shkodra and the surrounding highland areas of Drishti and Cukali. As the Bosnian author Ivo Andrić once wrote, “bridges are God’s angels,” uniting people across divides, and Mesi Bridge embodies this sentiment. Spanning over 108 meters with thirteen distinct arches made from round river stones and chiseled stone plates, it has weathered time and history with resilience and elegance.

Each arch of the Mesi Bridge tells a story, its shape and size bearing the mark of the artisans who shaped it and the centuries it has endured. Its asymmetrical, almost whimsical design gives it a personality unlike any other, and standing atop it feels like standing inside a living relic of the past. The bridge has long inspired visitors—among them the English artist Edward Lear, who captured its charm in a sketch during his 1848 travels through Albania. Today, it remains the largest and best-preserved Ottoman bridge in the country, and has become a favorite subject for painters, poets, photographers, and dreamers alike.

During spring and summer, the area around the bridge bursts into life. Locals and tourists often take bicycle tours along scenic village roads, stopping at the bridge to admire its architecture and cool off in the refreshing river below. The surrounding nature with its lush greenery, distant mountains, and clear blue waters, only add to the magic. Whether you’re exploring on foot, taking photographs, or simply pausing in silence, the Mesi Bridge offers more than a crossing; it offers a moment of timeless beauty and a rare harmony between nature, humanity, and history.

How to get there

Mesi Bridge is located about 8 kilometers northeast of Shkoder, making it an easy and rewarding half-day trip from the city. The most convenient way to reach the bridge is by car, following the road toward the village of Mes. The route is well-marked and takes you through scenic countryside and small villages. For those without a car, taxis are available and relatively inexpensive from Shkoder. Adventurous visitors can also reach the bridge by bike, enjoying a leisurely ride along quiet rural roads. Public transport options are limited, so planning ahead is recommended if you’re not driving. If you are visiting during summer, be ready for higher temperatures, so be mindful and prepare with appropriate clothing and don’t forget to take water to drink.