Meet the last inca bridge in cusco

Annual Renovation: A Link to Inca History

Each year, in a breathtaking spectacle, the community gathers in a unique ceremony to tear down the previous year's bridge, letting its foundations fall into the river. In a communal effort, women and children gather qoya-ichu, the straw needed to build the bridge's new foundations. This tradition, rooted in the times of the Inca Empire between the 15th and 16th centuries, persists today, strengthening the ties between the communities of Huinchiri, Chaupibanda, Choccayhua and Ccollana Quehue.

Andean Cosmovision: Renewal as Part of the Natural Cycle

Renewal and collective work are fundamental values in the Andean cosmovision. Just as harvesting follows sowing and shearing follows sheep breeding, the construction and renovation of architectural works are part of the natural cycle of life. The construction of the Q'eswachaka Bridge is not only a demonstration of local art and talent, but also marks the beginning of a new year in these heights.

Q'eswachaka Bridge: Symbol of Cultural Identity and Connection to the Earth

Today, this bridge goes beyond its practical function; it symbolizes people's continued connection to their land and history. The annual renewal of the Q'eswachaka plays a central role in the social cohesion of communities and is essential for the construction of their cultural identity.

The Construction Process: An Act of Collaboration

To erect the new bridge over the mighty Apurimac, the authorities of each community come together to collect and braid long ropes called queswas. These will form the handrail and the floor of the bridge. Tied to the stone bases at both ends of the gorge, an extensive carpet of branches covers the platform. Two experts in the tradition of coya bridge weaving lead this task, followed by speeches of thanks and a community feast.

Legacy of the Qhapaq Ñan: Inca Engineering at its Best

Experts point out that the Q'eswachaka Bridge is an outstanding legacy of the pre-Hispanic Qhapaq Ñan road network. This network was one of the greatest engineering works in history, connecting distant locations through a series of roads. Bridges, such as the Q'eswachaka, were essential to overcome the rugged Andean geography, and their construction demonstrates the Incas' mastery of engineering and their deep understanding of the natural environment.

Q'eswachaka is not only a physical bridge over the Apurimac River, but a tangible link to Inca history, a manifestation of the Andean cosmovision and an ongoing celebration of the cultural identity of the communities that build it year after year.