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 participants dismantle the previous bridge and then proceed to implement the four main ropes for the new bridge, which will serve as the primary support of the structure. They carefully remove the ropes and wooden sections that comprise 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. During this process, the participants employ traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. They carefully braid and interweave the ropes to create a solid foundation.ion.
Day 4 – The participants add the final touches and conduct thorough tests to ensure the bridge is prepared and safe for use. Once completed, they celebrate the completion of their project with abundant food and regional dances.
How to Get There
There are two ways you can visit the bridge and experience its wonder and incredible craftsmanship.
By Yourself – This way is a little tougher, but some prefer it. You’ll need to begin by finding a taxi driver who knows the route. There aren’t many around who know the exact way, so perhaps asking someone at your hotel or hostel might be a good way to start.
They will take you all the way to the town where the bridge is situated in around 3 hours from Cusco. Then you can take all the time you want to appreciate the bridge and snap some photos.
We recommend taking food for the day in case you don’t find anything you would like to eat. It’s a long journey and the food in the village can be fairly basic. This is especially required if you suffer from allergies or have dietary preferences.
You will have to negotiate with the taxi to wait for you and take you back to Cusco. You can expect to pay around 200 soles for this service for the whole day.
With an Agency – This option tends to be cheaper and you’ll be guaranteed to get there safely. With these Qeswachaka tour, you should also get food included so you only need to take snacks. You will also get to stop off at different places to see more along the route.
Take the 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.
Written by: Liv Palmer
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