Brataj Bridge – Stone Arch in the Albania near Shushuca River

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The Brataj Bridge is built near the village of the same name, Brat. The bridge has four arches that form a single vault.

A Brief History of the Brataj Bridge

In Albanian, the bridge is called Ura e Bratit and is located about an hour’s drive from Vlorë.

The bridge is an example of medieval construction and a unique monument from the 18th century.

Boulder and arches of the Bratai bridge — Ancient bridge over the Shushitsa River.

Brataj Bridge: Part of a Trade Route

The bridge was part of a network of trade routes crossing the Vjosa and Shushica rivers.

It was built using natural stones found in its immediate surroundings.

A Massive Boulder as a Support Structure

A unique feature of the bridge is the massive boulder on which it rests.

This natural boulder serves as one of the bridge’s main supports.

Bridge on a huge boulder in Albania — Zigzags of the ancient bridge across the Shushisa River.

How Many Arches Does Brataj Bridge Have

There are many opinions — for example, in the photo above, only two arches are visible.

In reality, the main structure is designed with three supports and four arches.

A massive boulder has blocked the third of the four arches, effectively turning the four-arch bridge into a three-arch version.

The boulder has replaced one of the bridge’s arches.

Does the fourth arch exist?

Yes, the fourth arch exists. It is small but visible in the photo below.

Bratai Bridge on the boulder — The photo shows the fourth small arch at the Bratai Bridge.

The Shushica River

Brataj Bridge was built over the Shushica River, which is one of the tributaries of the main Vjosa River.

The riverbed of the Shushica River is a place of unique beauty.

Shushica River in Albania — The riverbed of the Shushica against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains.

Stunning river Landscape

Many huge boulders near the Bratai bridge create an unusual landscape.

The stones in the riverbed have unusual shapes, sculpted by the water over time.

Shushica river in autumn — The Shushica River with its incredible landscapes.

Panoramic View of the Shushica Riverbed

The variety of streams and bends in the river creates an unparalleled natural beauty.

Tip: To walk along the riverbed, bring regular sandals with a strap.

This way, you won’t have to constantly remove and put on your shoes or wait for your feet to dry after stepping into the water.

Walking along the riverbed will make your journey more exciting — you’ll get to see more.

Panorama of the Shushisa riverbed — It looks like a huge giant has scattered the stones along the river.

Descending to the Shushica River

There are several ways to descend to Brataj Bridge from the main road.

First Descent Option

You can descend directly to the bridge from the road.

This path is steep, leading through rocks and stones.

The descent begins at a sign near the road.

Starting point: The sign near the parking area.

Coordinates: 40.267597, 19.669976

The exact place of descent to the Shushisa River — A sign on the road indicates the descent to the Bratai bridge.

Second Descent Option

You can descend farther from Brataj Bridge and walk approximately 400 meters along the riverbed.

Take memorable photos and then climb back up to the road near the bridge.

Starting point: A café near the road and the surrounding private sector.

Descent coordinates: 40.269153, 19.669365

This option is better for those who want to walk along the riverbed. You’ll get to experience Albania’s nature and the rare beauty of the river.

The distance between the two points on the road (descent and return via another path) is about 150 meters.

You can leave your car at the descent point and return to it via the road.

Shallow waters of Shushica — The incredible landscape of Shushisa is awe-inspiring.

Tips for Tourists

Here are some useful tips:

Choose a dry and sunny day to visit. In rainy or bad weather, you risk slipping and falling when descending or climbing back up.
Bring sandals (preferably with a strap) for wading through shallow parts of the river. Otherwise, you’ll have to take off your shoes and walk barefoot through the streams.
Wear sneakers — descending from the road and climbing back up is steep.

The so-called “path to the riverbed” runs through rocks, stones, grass, and rough terrain.

A narrow “goat trail” leads down to the river.

The path to the Bratai bridge — This is what the path looks like from the riverbed to the road.

How to Get to Brataj Bridge

The bridge is only accessible by car.

There are several parking areas near the road.

Landscape of the Shushitsa riverbed — Autumn landscape of the Shushisa River, taken at dusk.

Impressions from the Trip

Brataj Bridge is a unique monument of medieval construction, and the Shushica Riverbed is an incredibly beautiful place.

The bizarre shapes of the massive boulders create a surreal feeling, as if you’ve landed on another planet.

Brataj Bridge and the Shushica Riverbed are truly special places in Albania.

Shushica River in the mountains of Albania — The boulders are scattered along the riverbed in a chaotic manner.

Come to Albania and explore the country!

✅ Discover nature and cities.
✅ Taste local cuisine.
✅ Hike the mountain trails and coastal paths.

Enjoy your journey and make unforgettable memories!

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Brataj Bridge – A Forgotten Landmark in the Albanian Mountains