Roudia Venetian Bridge

The Gefiri tou Roudia Bridge, also known as the Roudia Venetian Bridge, is a remarkable piece of architecture located in the heart of the Paphos Forest, in Cyprus. Despite its somewhat remote location, the bridge is a popular tourist destination for visitors who are interested in exploring the natural beauty of the island. The bridge is situated near a smaller river that runs off the Xeros River and is surrounded by lush vegetation, including plain trees, pine trees, and alder trees. The area is known for its peaceful and serene environment, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. One of the most interesting things about the Roudia Venetian Bridge is that it is one of three Venetian bridges located in the Paphos Forest. The other two bridges are the Tzelefos Bridge and the Elia Bridge. These three bridges are connected by a nature trail that spans a distance of 11 kilometers. It is believed that the bridges were once part of a road that was used by caravans of camels during the medieval period. The camels were used to transport ores found in the mines and were taken to the Paphos port, where they were then exported abroad. The Roudia Venetian Bridge owes its name to the roudi bush, which was a significant source of income during the Venetian period. The bark and leaves of the roudi bush were used for various purposes, including medicinal and culinary uses. The bridge was constructed during the Venetian period and has since undergone several renovations and restorations. In the 1950s, the bridge was severely damaged by a powerful earthquake, and there were plans to demolish it during the British rule to open up the farm road. However, these attempts were eventually abandoned, and the bridge was restored in the 1970s. The bridge's arch has an opening of approximately 10 meters and a height of 60 meters, making it a spectacular sight to behold. Visitors can explore the bridge and its surroundings by taking the nature trail that begins at the bridge and ends at the Vretsia Village. The trail is approximately three kilometers long and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and river. The Roudia Venetian Bridge is a testament to the island's rich history and cultural heritage. It serves as a reminder of the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Venetian period and is a popular tourist destination for visitors from all over the world. The bridge's peaceful and serene surroundings, combined with its historical significance, make it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Cyprus.