Q’eswachaka, a magnificent rope bridge that soars majestically over the Apurímac River, is much more than a mere structure. It is a living link to the grandeur of the Incas and an entrenched tradition that has endured for over 600 years.
Every year, with unwavering dedication, members of the local communities gather to reconstruct this bridge just as it was done in ancient times. Imagine the collective effort of around 800 people, united by their commitment to preserving their cultural heritage. The result is an engineering marvel measuring 28 meters long and 1.2 meters wide, standing as a living testament to the skill and wisdom of their ancestors.
More than just a means to cross the river, the Qeswachaka Bridge holds profound significance for the locals. It is a tangible symbol of their ancestral traditions, a connection to the glorious past of the Incas, and a source of community pride. In fact, it is recognized as the last remaining Inca bridge, making it an invaluable treasure for both the local communities and curious visitors.
In this blog, we invite you to immerse yourself in the grandeur of a tradition that defies the passage of time and marvels at the greatness of the Q’eswachaka Bridge.
What does Q’eswachaka mean?
“Q’eswachaka” is a word that comes from the Quechua language and consists of two parts: “Q’eswa,” which means “rope” or “cord,” and “Chaka,” which means “bridge.” Therefore, “Q’eswachaka” translates to “rope bridge” or “hanging bridge.”
This bridge is an exceptional example of the ancient Inca suspension bridges that were constructed using traditional techniques and materials. It has been preserved and rebuilt for centuries by local communities, maintaining its connection to the Inca cultural heritage.
How it is built
Day 1 – The first day begins with a celebration of Apu Quinsallallawi, just as their ancestors did. At dawn and throughout the celebration, the Ichu material is braided by the community’s women.
Day 2 – The previous bridge is dismantled before implementing the four main ropes for the new bridge, which will be the primary support of the structure. Participants carefully remove the ropes and wooden sections of the old bridge structure.
Day 3 – This is the most intensive stage of restoration. On this day, they lay and braid the bridge floor and side railings. Artisans and community members work together to weave the new ropes used in bridge construction. This process involves using traditional techniques passed down through generations, where ropes are carefully braided and interwoven to form a solid foundation.
Day 4 – The final touches are made, and exhaustive tests are conducted to ensure the bridge is ready and safe for use. Once completed, they celebrate the completion of their project with abundant food and regional dances.
These four days of restoration are a physical and technical effort and an opportunity to strengthen community ties and keep an invaluable tradition alive.
How to Get There
There are two ways to visit the bridge and experience its marvel and incredible craftsmanship.
On Your Own – This option is more challenging, but some prefer it. You’ll have to find a taxi driver who knows the route. Only some know the exact way, so asking someone at your hotel or hostel might be a good starting point.
They will take you to the village where the bridge is located, which takes about 3 hours from Cusco. Then you can take all the time you want to appreciate the bridge and take some photos.
We recommend bringing food for the day if you are still looking for something tasty. It’s a long trip, and the food in the village can be quite essential. This is especially necessary if you have allergies or dietary preferences.
You’ll need to negotiate with the taxi driver to wait for you and take you back to Cusco. You can expect to pay around 200 soles for this service for the entire day.
With a Tour Agency – This option tends to be more cost-effective, and you’ll have the guarantee of arriving safely. With these trips, you’ll also have food included, so you’ll only need to bring snacks. Additionally, you can make stops at different places to see more along the route.
Take your time to visit this wonderful place
If you find yourself in Cusco, Peru, and have some time, we recommend reserving a day of your trip to visit the impressive Q’eswachaka Bridge. It is an enriching experience that immerses you in cultural richness and allows you to appreciate the dedication and love with which the community cares for and preserves its heritage.
Walking across the bridge, you’ll feel the energy and history flowing through its ropes and pillars. Contemplate the careful craftsmanship and teamwork required to keep this architectural wonder standing. Dare to discover what few have seen and treat yourself to a memorable day exploring the Q’eswachaka Bridge. We guarantee you’ll take away unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the Inca’s ancestral heritage.
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