I have spent a couple of days exploring down near the river. I was hoping to find a pleasant place to walk and enjoy the scenery, and I found it! Walking past 5 bridges crossing the Maritsa river allowed me to discover an area of Plovdiv I was unfamiliar with.
The Bridges
It appears that there are 6 main bridges crossing the Maritsa River in Plovdiv. All except for the ‘Train Bridge’ that I wrote about previously are fairly nondescript. They are simple structure concrete traffic bridges with no adornment what so ever (except for one).
Old Bridge
Starting from the left if facing the river in the tourist district is ‘Old Bridge’. Still obviously in use, it must be the oldest of the bunch. Very utilitarian in nature, the river was at its widest here. When I crossed over the Old Bridge and looked down, many parts of the river were quite shallow and filled with plant life.
Here fishermen were out hoping to catch some brekkie I think! It was very picturesque and lovely to watch. This bridge has wide walkways on either side of the traffic.
Repaxnka Bridge
I am butchering the Bulgarian spelling but this is as close to the word that my English keyboard can get. Another nondescript traffic bridge. The Maritsa is becoming less wide here, however there is a grassy bank forming along this side.
Train Bridge
Very cute looking covered bridge. Originally a simple pedestrian only bridge, now it is covered and lined on both sides with unique stores.
Fair Bridge
This is the most interesting of the bridges. It also looks the newest. On either side and at each end are mammoth size white stone sculptures. Flags adorn both sides all the way across. On the other side of the river, I found a huge fair ground, not carnival fair, but trade fair with extensive congress type facilities.
Agata Bridge
Again, I am butchering the Bulgarian spelling. This is the least attractive bridge. Made of concrete and completely unadorned in any way. The river is very narrow here and the grassy bank is at its widest.
I didn’t walk past Agata Bridge. This area is unkept, and the pedestrian path appears to stop here. I could see no businesses or other signs of life.
If I was to recommend this area of the city to future visitors, I would definitely encourage a walk across Train Bridge and Fair Bridge. Train Bridge is unique in its looks and shopping opportunities. Fair bridge is domineering in a low profile way, and will take you to see the fair grounds and other interesting buildings close by.
